tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37109058179858085112024-02-18T21:42:11.099-08:00Star Tile Centre Bloghttp://www.startilecentre.com/Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-36274672206353520502017-07-19T08:38:00.003-07:002017-07-19T08:52:08.472-07:00Trending Now: Color and Pattern Make These Backsplashes Stand Out<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Trending Now: Color and Pattern Make These Backsplashes Stand Out<br /> <br /> Jazz up a white kitchen or enhance a dark wood one with a bold backsplash. These 10 trending kitchen photos offer ideas<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNisw44yPkO-ZYEPe3U0DVY3ilQoejOAsPh8S97BKU0pxMEnUlKSrSYrnVq6jVRas2jzr2sIBiU7AOCyLik_rnTCcsbFXMnmG8XdI5HV3mKYCV_bsCqoZZW_D6PTiC9_51RXKt6okQSjY/s1600/1.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNisw44yPkO-ZYEPe3U0DVY3ilQoejOAsPh8S97BKU0pxMEnUlKSrSYrnVq6jVRas2jzr2sIBiU7AOCyLik_rnTCcsbFXMnmG8XdI5HV3mKYCV_bsCqoZZW_D6PTiC9_51RXKt6okQSjY/s320/1.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> <br /> While the white kitchen seems to be a trend with staying power, we’ve noticed more homeowners choosing colorful tile backsplashes lately. That trend was evident in many of the most popular new kitchen photos added to Houzz from April through June, as measured by how many people saved them to their ideabooks during that period. Below are some of the standouts from new kitchen photos that made the top 40. Which backsplash style is your favorite?<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-vWOS4rGEy2MD3khuwfeek-seSwgZMrb5Nf-cpRktoTGr3QTCF8CdleNOYVhvdnlQ03Q_SPZbQuFE7BEwIQ8Jt7k_2Zn14GRnvJ1Uw9oOrxgqYvx0L7eeMQ_gSokyDEEPPCT93680IU/s1600/2.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-vWOS4rGEy2MD3khuwfeek-seSwgZMrb5Nf-cpRktoTGr3QTCF8CdleNOYVhvdnlQ03Q_SPZbQuFE7BEwIQ8Jt7k_2Zn14GRnvJ1Uw9oOrxgqYvx0L7eeMQ_gSokyDEEPPCT93680IU/s320/2.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Mosaic wall. A custom tile backsplash amps up the energy in this Seattle kitchen, which also features a chopping station. The first photo made the top 40 new kitchen photos; the second did not but shows a nice detail of the tile.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-YP3DXUkckLxJDH3N-fAwYQ6rO7fD7THLhd0RRTXL1mlZziGhPr7bBla_JxdSpJ67aTTahnQqKGVB3GRL-UddLdyFnQzRU6dHuUUH-wBda1ST34-JN0Fg-2Qt7W_3QooOiWQx7LIAoU/s1600/3.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-YP3DXUkckLxJDH3N-fAwYQ6rO7fD7THLhd0RRTXL1mlZziGhPr7bBla_JxdSpJ67aTTahnQqKGVB3GRL-UddLdyFnQzRU6dHuUUH-wBda1ST34-JN0Fg-2Qt7W_3QooOiWQx7LIAoU/s320/3.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Party tile. Teardrop-shaped teal and white tiles evoke the bubbling top of a glass of Champagne in this Canadian kitchen backsplash. The inventive pattern is more lively than a full wall of the teal tiles would be. Also, fading to white as the backsplash goes higher gives the space a more airy, open feel.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-Ca5b6Kq0OdsIdbU3JQjfM-abZVL_qbcbmhCltyhJfTw-z2MqjVDEkjYGNdGFgVBdiDSq4_B0D5yr60u3T1feP2Ciyhmqe5qZSRav99AheGJMziE_o5exp1NYePQE65cQIwh-7dqLRk/s1600/4.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-Ca5b6Kq0OdsIdbU3JQjfM-abZVL_qbcbmhCltyhJfTw-z2MqjVDEkjYGNdGFgVBdiDSq4_B0D5yr60u3T1feP2Ciyhmqe5qZSRav99AheGJMziE_o5exp1NYePQE65cQIwh-7dqLRk/s320/4.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Halfway up. This intricate backsplash in a kitchen in Moscow goes halfway up the wall — just the right amount so that the detailed pattern doesn’t overwhelm the eye. Capping the backsplash with a shelf adds to the kitchen’s storage and design.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Cic-MkHWRn_pNJpwg69ft21uYm7pOhjQReGcCj2GdEmjufENAGjvgxv_xW3lKCOBr3f_Nx-zSn2LvNbzfDOeWhj9AdIUM5ETnvsXjvN-BJrEyo4Gb4UvfQV0led_A8fUawrqUSflBg4/s1600/5.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Cic-MkHWRn_pNJpwg69ft21uYm7pOhjQReGcCj2GdEmjufENAGjvgxv_xW3lKCOBr3f_Nx-zSn2LvNbzfDOeWhj9AdIUM5ETnvsXjvN-BJrEyo4Gb4UvfQV0led_A8fUawrqUSflBg4/s320/5.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Mezzanotte. This hand-painted ceramic tile brings an artisanal look to a traditional white kitchen. Geometric pottery and wooden salt and pepper containers underscore the handmade feel. <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCJaLjD2__dEq0_vUnhkiU1C-n-mYWw0Jmpi7Soz5a4CfRkI3PzzNnWS6R8XqLwxhYNdUwWoe-0qhT_cRvan4SRP6Wjr6P63LKjgpV4wx9w2vaut_VVoDQ_sFe4v3u2ALsatzJBdLvqA/s1600/6.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCJaLjD2__dEq0_vUnhkiU1C-n-mYWw0Jmpi7Soz5a4CfRkI3PzzNnWS6R8XqLwxhYNdUwWoe-0qhT_cRvan4SRP6Wjr6P63LKjgpV4wx9w2vaut_VVoDQ_sFe4v3u2ALsatzJBdLvqA/s320/6.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Here’s a pulled-back view of the backsplash against the surrounding white Shaker cabinetry. This photo was the fourth-most popular new kitchen photo added to Houzz from April through June of this year. <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrKsINOnc1_vlV5JThZ2RPH89KDt5PRjaH_5gIXNjfMXRHZiAhRXbqDkcTVb4GlJ_MHlpwa98_J5VGDlrWXJE4l1iqdDRG4GoOvtUTWOjY6LZ1_Sb6LJx2ugRrbtW__xHltK5S2WTumM/s1600/7.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqrKsINOnc1_vlV5JThZ2RPH89KDt5PRjaH_5gIXNjfMXRHZiAhRXbqDkcTVb4GlJ_MHlpwa98_J5VGDlrWXJE4l1iqdDRG4GoOvtUTWOjY6LZ1_Sb6LJx2ugRrbtW__xHltK5S2WTumM/s320/7.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Happy pop. This kitchen features a neutral palette that gains visual interest from the sunflower-patterned mosaic tile, which adds an upbeat, energetic feel to the room.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPWbr4NUxFb_xYGSkgvjXYCnF7zsUaDjdMEcEWbalOJzgwgkIdI_nELarRT6qaoZJZpR02BflwYzot2GcZTcmdTNqZ5Ls6a1Miq-fdW5OcFJv00QqavL34WOQ5gnEZ97cm5ZUdg49cns/s1600/8.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPWbr4NUxFb_xYGSkgvjXYCnF7zsUaDjdMEcEWbalOJzgwgkIdI_nELarRT6qaoZJZpR02BflwYzot2GcZTcmdTNqZ5Ls6a1Miq-fdW5OcFJv00QqavL34WOQ5gnEZ97cm5ZUdg49cns/s320/8.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> A queen every day. This backsplash is a combination of geometric porcelain tile and wallpaper that features the likenesses of historic queens. The owner of this home — actually a houseboat in Sausalito, California, that belongs to an international lawyer — experimented with pattern and color for a truly unique floating residence.<br /><br /><br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3uHskmMHngf9FG4nQH88fE1bv6C65GLvy5TE7ktUhywH_BDipEnjLHGrgglilOo8OV7Y8JFd9ebuuJKknqxH96s7Hv5NP0zP4wwgrqC6emteLca6Bieck7hsDRxwalP4cxKtP7aaVxA/s1600/9.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim3uHskmMHngf9FG4nQH88fE1bv6C65GLvy5TE7ktUhywH_BDipEnjLHGrgglilOo8OV7Y8JFd9ebuuJKknqxH96s7Hv5NP0zP4wwgrqC6emteLca6Bieck7hsDRxwalP4cxKtP7aaVxA/s320/9.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Blue and sweet. This backsplash features hand-painted terra-cotta tile in cream with blue, black and rust accents, making for a unique color palette. This photo was the sixth-most popular new kitchen shot added to Houzz from April through June.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikuKUigjlX9pvTmNV6SFbxPT0nuxIVRj_3g4w1YXJzSOPUnF7TJ_TQawV_uvlti7USzAgKyK3MIQCO1XRp4r5bAshwoEwFr0qKvF-KEKUhVEoLjtgW7CGJzzf2Glg0nglATzo94nJzzTc/s1600/10.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikuKUigjlX9pvTmNV6SFbxPT0nuxIVRj_3g4w1YXJzSOPUnF7TJ_TQawV_uvlti7USzAgKyK3MIQCO1XRp4r5bAshwoEwFr0qKvF-KEKUhVEoLjtgW7CGJzzf2Glg0nglATzo94nJzzTc/s320/10.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Here’s a detail shot of the same room. <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjybS4x7iPWZaxR5XocCkqIYQwk6jLqXwr36_NvHTbxkL4HLIHGPuDm-T_9Q-GM7bMXQ-yKpYlAG3R5MaWMrAUG1c-_VWH9QHwmBFDqdAWOi5Wcyy3g4ZlCpGORSCsPhh16JU78a4YFpxU/s1600/11.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjybS4x7iPWZaxR5XocCkqIYQwk6jLqXwr36_NvHTbxkL4HLIHGPuDm-T_9Q-GM7bMXQ-yKpYlAG3R5MaWMrAUG1c-_VWH9QHwmBFDqdAWOi5Wcyy3g4ZlCpGORSCsPhh16JU78a4YFpxU/s320/11.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Chevron. The designer of this kitchen, the fifth-most popular new kitchen photo on Houzz from April through June, used a chevron pattern for the backsplash. Chevron is made up of continuous V shapes and is a close cousin of herringbone, a pattern frequently seen on wood floors that has a broken, or staggered, V pattern.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nqOyBdwSxC2ZD8ZOzA3BY2scBfrmbhuGabaQH9GsTXUFtkYfG3j50JAnCJ7esgBIjf2r2hek764l1hpb857toyC9b_IgFLseaosFoKpDOiTln7z8Yri7w94VwMMX70g15MW1oMpHzmM/s1600/12.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nqOyBdwSxC2ZD8ZOzA3BY2scBfrmbhuGabaQH9GsTXUFtkYfG3j50JAnCJ7esgBIjf2r2hek764l1hpb857toyC9b_IgFLseaosFoKpDOiTln7z8Yri7w94VwMMX70g15MW1oMpHzmM/s320/12.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Double duty. Here’s a backsplash option: If you’ve got a gorgeous countertop, why not just continue it up the walls? These Chicago homeowners matched up the quartzite grain pattern beneath the range hood — it looks like an upside-down V — in their transitional-style kitchen. <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkaFnvWM8IsARRkwy7ScRzRW4HIA4DtuHapug8io6j98THzWk9QZ67MQVDOoL7KtLfj895pHlzF6RDoiEJirOLblCQGCGIpSW3reRiaKsk3Ux-KPtabghxGRLhv6RwoC5brgNCnOesIQ/s1600/13.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkaFnvWM8IsARRkwy7ScRzRW4HIA4DtuHapug8io6j98THzWk9QZ67MQVDOoL7KtLfj895pHlzF6RDoiEJirOLblCQGCGIpSW3reRiaKsk3Ux-KPtabghxGRLhv6RwoC5brgNCnOesIQ/s320/13.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Textural white. Unlike the rest of the kitchens in this story, this Atlanta space features a monochromatic backsplash. But its texture and unusual convex shape give the wall added oomph. <br /><br /><br /> <br /> Could this be an option for you?<br /><br /><br /> Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.</span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-12974849367906157932017-03-22T06:13:00.002-07:002017-03-22T06:32:13.658-07:00Before and After: 6 Bathrooms That Said Goodbye to the Tub<br />Sleek showers replaced tub-shower combos in these bathroom remodels. Could this be an option for you?<br /><br /> Bathtubs, while a common bathroom feature, don’t always get a lot of use. Fifty-six percent of respondents say they never use their tub for taking a bath. So it’s no surprise that some people are opting to take out the tub altogether when they remodel their bathroom. <br /><br />Let’s take a look at six bathroom transformations that said goodbye to the tub. Maybe these scenarios will shower you with new ideas for your own bathroom.<br />
<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9omV5FS7S9Bm01pFTpK3cziMvr6F-fHjO3IiCqgJSs2xSGxQHunEpse6jCjvuaZWNQkEpikpRHHeuhG6UIiHyvBpo1KIUVhY0DnKUNFtFRnl3DE857VkDD5vjZbI0PxjEDjl6vVskC4/s1600/blog1.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9omV5FS7S9Bm01pFTpK3cziMvr6F-fHjO3IiCqgJSs2xSGxQHunEpse6jCjvuaZWNQkEpikpRHHeuhG6UIiHyvBpo1KIUVhY0DnKUNFtFRnl3DE857VkDD5vjZbI0PxjEDjl6vVskC4/s320/blog1.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> <br />1. 1980s Style to Classic Charm<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Size: About 50 square feet (4.6 square meters)<br />BEFORE: A renovation in the 1980s left this bathroom dark and cramped.<br />
<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ7zJ_bQCjaKGGfZNPobtNezVMVoeQZoUDInreL3eIr7lBpi2OPZWf5QG6aLJZ-mXu5yDRiP7JtdKg9CDKp9LTisKT2XUhXifvS0eEuccEfbkbWlJxTsE4DgeXELCR7-il8cmUQjnnBA/s1600/blog2.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ7zJ_bQCjaKGGfZNPobtNezVMVoeQZoUDInreL3eIr7lBpi2OPZWf5QG6aLJZ-mXu5yDRiP7JtdKg9CDKp9LTisKT2XUhXifvS0eEuccEfbkbWlJxTsE4DgeXELCR7-il8cmUQjnnBA/s320/blog2.JPG" /></a><br /> <br /> AFTER: A large glass shower greets the homeowners, who chose a plan that would age along with them. They focused on adding a shower that allowed easy access should the couple have any mobility problems in the future, something their previous tub didn’t do.<br /><br />
Wall paint: Mt. Rainier Gray; wainscoting paint: Alabaster, both Benjamin Moore; toilet: Kohler; sink: Barclay; faucets:Pfister; mirrored medicine cabinet: custom; floor, subway and shower floor tile.<br /><br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCaDBt0TXbUsa9Fs0N1-rC6FeOgD0mNIrfe5KoIf2b_NuYByzXNUcV15OFhfXXa4gEb_x9Wka9veoA65BueuOAASvKUjjdrQBMhYazL90oqMqxXuAKrWzCCYBj8-stSpfgbq0pG_1aMo/s1600/blog3.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCaDBt0TXbUsa9Fs0N1-rC6FeOgD0mNIrfe5KoIf2b_NuYByzXNUcV15OFhfXXa4gEb_x9Wka9veoA65BueuOAASvKUjjdrQBMhYazL90oqMqxXuAKrWzCCYBj8-stSpfgbq0pG_1aMo/s320/blog3.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> 2. Crumbling to Crisp<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Who uses it: A couple expecting their first child<br />Size: About 55 square feet (5 square meters)<br />BEFORE: This 1912 bathroom had patched tile, limited storage and flickering fluorescent lights.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWrgbS9yXtglF0YPgRfPrF8VO4uCd1FnBgmVPp2_eSM2a7McqWaZ7ez18HeY9eLkUVq3hFjMiznBe-hIrOu4QA1rAwG5FnuJ6Y-853bhmsDfx_AqVTlAt4R4JAm5TAkPjDY5yuD_YqO8/s1600/blog4.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWrgbS9yXtglF0YPgRfPrF8VO4uCd1FnBgmVPp2_eSM2a7McqWaZ7ez18HeY9eLkUVq3hFjMiznBe-hIrOu4QA1rAwG5FnuJ6Y-853bhmsDfx_AqVTlAt4R4JAm5TAkPjDY5yuD_YqO8/s320/blog4.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> AFTER: The couple gets a bright, warm bathroom, complete with a large shower. (Note: A glass panel was added to create a side on the shower after this photo was taken.) The couple had fewer reservations about having only a shower in this space because the home has another bathroom with a tub. <br /><br />Toilet: Adair, Kohler; paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore; sink: Teorema; fixtures and knobs: Purist in brushed Moderne Gold, Kohler; cabinets: reclaimed sinker cypress, Kole Made<br /><br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGADetBzvTqo6vTK8fcKFhzmy46Fx4habD3qTRS88NTyz2Xo2a7GP9AaRbalIrnD3K3QH_tz39DM-BwredUJsRDjmqgTTDHl4F1w97oqE04_upx_5jlQma3z0yRhKHuzByCa9_DGoNq8/s1600/blog5.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGADetBzvTqo6vTK8fcKFhzmy46Fx4habD3qTRS88NTyz2Xo2a7GP9AaRbalIrnD3K3QH_tz39DM-BwredUJsRDjmqgTTDHl4F1w97oqE04_upx_5jlQma3z0yRhKHuzByCa9_DGoNq8/s320/blog5.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> <br />3. Floral Curtain to Elegant Glass<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Who lives here: A single professional woman who travels extensively for work<br />Size: 75 square feet (7 square meters)<br />BEFORE: The shower was tucked back into the corner of the space and was closed off from the rest of the room by a curtain.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSsYyqcQxib0LhzBXEQYDfdF3MJO09KrsB-srxjaxf0RCTriKReMM61THbEQxelChKjpHYWbuvb3_3pAttb9uwo2I4QP4QFLyWZkHRibdFnjjDxNPDP2ssE4-WwanHTaQePHwvwbeiN4/s1600/blog6.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSsYyqcQxib0LhzBXEQYDfdF3MJO09KrsB-srxjaxf0RCTriKReMM61THbEQxelChKjpHYWbuvb3_3pAttb9uwo2I4QP4QFLyWZkHRibdFnjjDxNPDP2ssE4-WwanHTaQePHwvwbeiN4/s320/blog6.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> AFTER: They changed the space into a shower stall. It opened up the space, making the bathroom feel larger, lighter and more airy. The shower covers about the same footprint as the previous shower but gives the room a whole different look. <br />Tile: Tile Showcase; shower wall and door glass: Starphire glass<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjJ6cBl7jEV5IidyfBHOdNk30sGgZI4qoWaDCK-V9uBZGi8HCMgUGrQUKezcUWWR0Elevf7mCcSGTTXoNLh68nTns3aZVXdFLAsmTD-lMCkylgkk4AtgMhqwlOSnjm-Axa9p2MuDX5KI/s1600/blog7.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjJ6cBl7jEV5IidyfBHOdNk30sGgZI4qoWaDCK-V9uBZGi8HCMgUGrQUKezcUWWR0Elevf7mCcSGTTXoNLh68nTns3aZVXdFLAsmTD-lMCkylgkk4AtgMhqwlOSnjm-Axa9p2MuDX5KI/s320/blog7.JPG" /></a><br /> <br />4. Outdated to Efficient<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Who lives here: A family of three who regularly has guests<br />Size: 45 square feet (4.2 square meters)<br />BEFORE: When the owners purchased this condo, the bathroom had a mismatch of styles in the bathroom, as well as outdated electrical and ventilation.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGpPxkGWNpn2QEv113jTTh1pWcN0Akl5NnfdSOXqKCS8welaFFR4kNYbpHvpAEpY3CYkrAW4DaDFNJuub-XGT-fhDWpXEnuovNz7RD-MVxu_KymHpMVj3I_IT2sWL_XJakyZZ4W2gaJw/s1600/blog8.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGpPxkGWNpn2QEv113jTTh1pWcN0Akl5NnfdSOXqKCS8welaFFR4kNYbpHvpAEpY3CYkrAW4DaDFNJuub-XGT-fhDWpXEnuovNz7RD-MVxu_KymHpMVj3I_IT2sWL_XJakyZZ4W2gaJw/s320/blog8.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> AFTER: The renovated bathroom created a bathroom that efficiently uses space and requires little maintenance. One maintenance saver was the fixed-glass shower door. It also lets in additional light, along with the new window, to make the space brighter.<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhR__ewybsC2xx9BXMAYXUtPwiCsPwVaMxJ2ed0i7YaYC38PR_8vbjwB-JoVpyxGM72ZHx4CfKp2etlx7oL0lciEOCShQH3CP4vtVZY8gAfxInzpReLXSogO2AEE-auyGob7DT7O-zIGM/s1600/blog8.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhR__ewybsC2xx9BXMAYXUtPwiCsPwVaMxJ2ed0i7YaYC38PR_8vbjwB-JoVpyxGM72ZHx4CfKp2etlx7oL0lciEOCShQH3CP4vtVZY8gAfxInzpReLXSogO2AEE-auyGob7DT7O-zIGM/s320/blog8.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> <br />5. Unloved Pink to Cheerful Rainbow<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Who uses it: Artist and psychologist Jan Ferris and her standard poodle, King<br />Size: About 94 square feet (9 square meters)<br />BEFORE: Not only did the homeowner not love the color, but a recent leak that flooded her home had left black mold in the bathroom. The vanity also was jammed against the tub, making everything feel crowded.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnC0_DLhIIFMo5A9ERtV4PSfYbM3Cun1EM2QTNT6RjMraLYCoWFmUu1MxTFaAoI-5JJqgMRCbSQjlGKEiT_1Zkng6UeKdoCFzOkL4EIiz7EnVZfsCzzZJqkAkxongYpkRbhJZmpZ2CXg/s1600/blog9.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnC0_DLhIIFMo5A9ERtV4PSfYbM3Cun1EM2QTNT6RjMraLYCoWFmUu1MxTFaAoI-5JJqgMRCbSQjlGKEiT_1Zkng6UeKdoCFzOkL4EIiz7EnVZfsCzzZJqkAkxongYpkRbhJZmpZ2CXg/s320/blog9.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> AFTER: A large, glass-walled shower fills a corner of this artist’s now very colorful bathroom. The removal of the tub gave the homeowner more room, and she wasn’t concerned about the resale value of not having a tub. <br />Glass shower installation: Edden Glass and Mirror; mosaic tile: Sandstone mix<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIY72M_f3jxAK8idwTphIc3a132dMEUdAY941vJ55zCOQieygQ7rJKnbbtswYYteZOJs4_xVrs9nIiD1VXwUjuWUkVbiesThmM_HvrHOiYfOYkkTj75_BZeaYLvQcD5tEfKgO4L9nL138/s1600/blog10.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIY72M_f3jxAK8idwTphIc3a132dMEUdAY941vJ55zCOQieygQ7rJKnbbtswYYteZOJs4_xVrs9nIiD1VXwUjuWUkVbiesThmM_HvrHOiYfOYkkTj75_BZeaYLvQcD5tEfKgO4L9nL138/s320/blog10.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> <br />6. Clunky to Stylish<br />Bathroom at a Glance<br />Who lives here: A couple of newlyweds and the husband’s teenage son<br />Size: 75 square feet (6.9 square meters)<br />BEFORE: The bathroom was functional but felt clunky and didn’t match the family’s style.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniJd3_hF8LlmhSMKZoVcVKv014tI-jrMkVA8bGqKrJfXu219unizBXDvYO4B26YNFPYZv1uUfpfjHiM8pt0YBMLenLD67Ls6xtbEIbc4mvPUOnFQ4zuQeQIQ5KQyx4XCJWPwcuWlBbJQ/s1600/blog12.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniJd3_hF8LlmhSMKZoVcVKv014tI-jrMkVA8bGqKrJfXu219unizBXDvYO4B26YNFPYZv1uUfpfjHiM8pt0YBMLenLD67Ls6xtbEIbc4mvPUOnFQ4zuQeQIQ5KQyx4XCJWPwcuWlBbJQ/s320/blog12.JPG" /></a><br /><br /> AFTER: A walk-in shower, complete with a rain shower head and divider, brings an open, 1920s style to the family’s bathroom. chose the black trim to amp up the contrast in the room.<br /><br /><br /> Could this be an option for you?<br /><br /> Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.<br /><br /> Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-11165632215205792412016-02-04T10:01:00.002-08:002016-02-04T10:01:35.794-08:00Making Deck Mud (Dry Pack Mortar) for Tiled Shower Floors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Making Deck Mud (Dry Pack Mortar) for Tiled Shower Floors</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdoEIoKnIe-CBGXqht4aeZ-xXOf818cVWWCWA8YfoUFbbrTsd6mMc8wDSPSdGct54qePXbztT3PVQCyGQr9Zcx4BTqK-rZ8va0EwphI0M3XE1nYXem20m7CiB-v1zbvNgMhSMqM2TlaY/s1600/mud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdoEIoKnIe-CBGXqht4aeZ-xXOf818cVWWCWA8YfoUFbbrTsd6mMc8wDSPSdGct54qePXbztT3PVQCyGQr9Zcx4BTqK-rZ8va0EwphI0M3XE1nYXem20m7CiB-v1zbvNgMhSMqM2TlaY/s320/mud.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Despite everything that’s been written on the proper way to make dry pack mortar, there still seems to be a great deal of uncertainty on the part of weekend warriors, and even a few pros have trouble with the concept. I have therefore taken a few pictures of the mud I make, and I will explain the process once again. Maybe these pictures will be a little clearer than those previously published. Included in this article are thumbnail photos, and if you click them you’ll be taken to the full-size versions.<br /><br />To begin with, I’ll describe deck mud, which is also called dry pack mortar or floor mud. In other English speaking countries it might be called “screed.”<br /><br /> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3dfaKfgHI4ZkhCtCGZ26jjxMlNg1GvxKQAh80emb5mGdS03Xiokr7rX0DpAHTBsmof5xqfzIiqJms0TjsABE3J5waoz4FUUzqUMD1TPRmb02upN4kW6rew-jH18MoXP6zYAROJ7La5XM/s1600/mud1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3dfaKfgHI4ZkhCtCGZ26jjxMlNg1GvxKQAh80emb5mGdS03Xiokr7rX0DpAHTBsmof5xqfzIiqJms0TjsABE3J5waoz4FUUzqUMD1TPRmb02upN4kW6rew-jH18MoXP6zYAROJ7La5XM/s320/mud1.JPG" width="228" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Deck mud is made with clean sand, portland cement and water. That’s it. Don’t consider adding anything else. The basic recipe is 5 parts sand to 1 part portland cement — 5:1. Some professionals prefer a richer mix of 4:1, but I’ve found that ratio hard to mix and spread. Too much cement and the mortar tends to clump as you mix it. Other pros advocate a 6:1 or even a 7:1 recipe. I think 5:1 can be considered the median of the industry. I think it’s ideal. Richer or leaner mixes do the job, though, so don’t panic if your mud is not “ideal.”<br /><br />It has been suggested that deck mud should be mixed with latex additive instead of water, this to make the mortar more cohesive and to give it greater compressive strength. Well, I’m here to tell you that mortar made from sand, cement and water can easily attain a compressive strength of 3,000 psi or better. That strength is more than adequate for shower floors and other small areas. Adding latex in this instance is simply a waste of time and money.<br /><br />The best sand to use is clean “sharp sand.” Sharp sand is crushed stone. It might also be called concrete sand or torpedo sand. It is much courser than masonry sand, but masonry sand can also be used.<br /><br />Portland cement is the universal name for construction cement. It comes in 94 lb. sacks and is available at almost all building supply stores, many hardware stores, big box home centers and most sand yards. This is the cement to use for deck mud. Do not consider “masonry cement,” which contains lime.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are pre-mixed mortar products that contain only sand and portland, and these can be used to make deck mud. Most of them will have to be thinned down just a bit by adding additional sand, as the cement content of the pre-mixes is too high (about 3:1, usually). One popular product is Sand Topping Mix. You can find Sand Topping Mix at Home Depot. I use it frequently for small jobs like single shower floors. I buy a couple 50-pound sacks of Play Sand, which can be added to the Sand Topping Mix to weaken it and make it more appropriate for shower floors.<br /><br />The amount of water used in making deck mud will depend on the water content of the sand you use. If you are using a pre-mixed product like Sand Topping Mix the sand will be completely dry. Sharp sand or masonry sand, on the other hand, is stored outdoors, and its water content varies with the weather. In making deck mud you want to use only enough water to cause the cement coated sand particles to cling together when compressed in your hand. You will see no water when this occurs. The mix will merely be damp — just enough water to activate the cement and cause the hydration process to begin.<br /><br /> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0OFbWzQzPsRSgqitBvPjQKfYo83-RTAnEB3CKfvxr4c93hzaND72bRghqgOUz_6chtalrH8SWo1dkLCiy9w2xlHeM2dkYDG2qvIfhC_oEhQUko1u3ZTAcjDnp7jjrNRYwnVkCUJ-P5K0/s1600/mud2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0OFbWzQzPsRSgqitBvPjQKfYo83-RTAnEB3CKfvxr4c93hzaND72bRghqgOUz_6chtalrH8SWo1dkLCiy9w2xlHeM2dkYDG2qvIfhC_oEhQUko1u3ZTAcjDnp7jjrNRYwnVkCUJ-P5K0/s320/mud2.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />The mortar is made from 80 lbs. of Sand Topping Mix to which 50 lbs. of Play Sand<br />have been added. Water was added in small amounts until the mortar was dampened completely.<br /><br />Whether using a pre-mixed product or sand and portland cement, it is important to dry mix the mortar before adding water. This ensures that each particle of sand becomes coated with cement. You can use a shovel, but a masonry hoe (above) works much better. A flat sand and gravel shovel works well when mixing on a flat surface such as a concrete slab or sheets of plywood. The idea is to shift the material back and forth until it’s completely blended.<br /><br />Water is added only to the point that the mortar becomes evenly damp. You can see above the clumps that are created when water combines with the sand and cement. Continuing to mix the mortar will eliminate much of the clumping — unless the cement content is too rich.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qb1_HDhgxnry_TA5Tx2VgsLRuLZD8NHrPz3P7d-TjZsxbdjBKmGhtwSiUSbxZK2G8RZpC9pnNCAM7MghI8vx913TWe-hjstcC2_wk66Rw2JSSQc6EOvbdYHKNakxNeVWrE6O4itS5jc/s1600/mud3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qb1_HDhgxnry_TA5Tx2VgsLRuLZD8NHrPz3P7d-TjZsxbdjBKmGhtwSiUSbxZK2G8RZpC9pnNCAM7MghI8vx913TWe-hjstcC2_wk66Rw2JSSQc6EOvbdYHKNakxNeVWrE6O4itS5jc/s320/mud3.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />The mortar is mixed. Note how it holds it’s shape when clumped in the hand. Note also that<br />there is no excess water. Look how relatively clean my hand remains after clumping the mud.<br />Handling the mud can be equated to making sandcastles, except that the mud will be a bit<br />dryer than sandcastle material.<br /><br />The deck mud depicted above is ready to place and form. It is damp enough to hold itself together when packed but at the same time it contains no excess water. Water is what causes concrete and concrete products to shrink when curing. Deck mud is used because it shrinks very little. It is also much easier to work than mortars which contain more water, such as brick mortar, for example.<br /> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tQ7fUGKRlLQPWK4rLzezi4DCP0YvD1t2ulwdK7H21wpX6QV3ZmOc3nhLkIKlZgihSrmhNInTHmxsrqeDQkUvF6LeM5nRyYR-pqqR3zvT5XdKj0UUeDT0Xj49cwNnVFshtq9ZjPVK0pg/s1600/mud4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tQ7fUGKRlLQPWK4rLzezi4DCP0YvD1t2ulwdK7H21wpX6QV3ZmOc3nhLkIKlZgihSrmhNInTHmxsrqeDQkUvF6LeM5nRyYR-pqqR3zvT5XdKj0UUeDT0Xj49cwNnVFshtq9ZjPVK0pg/s320/mud4.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />In this picture I have crushed the clump with my thumb. You can see how easily<br />the mortar crumbles. You can also easily see how dry the mix is. It’s unlike any other mortar<br />you might be familiar with.<br /><br />When you pack the deck mud in your shower floor you will be able to rake it into the shape you want by using short pieces of wood as straightedges. That’s pretty much how shower floors are formed. The mortar is packed in with a wood float or flat steel trowel and rubbed or scraped off until the dish shape of the shower floor is attained. I’ve written books that contain instruction for building showers, and others have written articles on the subject, so I won’t cover that exercise here. This piece is intended only to give you a close-up look at properly mixed deck mud and a “feel” for how the material should act when you place it. I will say this, though. Don’t dilly dally around once the mud is mixed. Depending on temperature, humidity and wind conditions, you’ll have from 30 to 45 minutes to get the mud placed and shaped. Take longer than that and you’re pushing your luck.<br /><br />To recap, deck mud is the mortar to use when building shower floors. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise or sell you other cement products. Deck mud contains only sand, portland cement and a little bit of water.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Next time we will talk Waterproofing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.</span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-77451923541793347142016-01-13T11:44:00.001-08:002016-01-13T11:52:42.913-08:00Six Elements of an Effective Kitchen Office - <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Six Elements of an Effective Kitchen Office - <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2zsUTW5ld4le7jPpZEeHsNHiql-5ej8xInn9ZADBYeZ6p2d-i2Mlq8Or2iwHb1brhIvoJTHtmEOBFe0JhP2Xg3hizMObtonUfUFugf6tx17Oyl3as0vYkSR6SC1hfiP_yWqeTwUtZMk/s1600/front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2zsUTW5ld4le7jPpZEeHsNHiql-5ej8xInn9ZADBYeZ6p2d-i2Mlq8Or2iwHb1brhIvoJTHtmEOBFe0JhP2Xg3hizMObtonUfUFugf6tx17Oyl3as0vYkSR6SC1hfiP_yWqeTwUtZMk/s320/front.JPG" width="249" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
With kitchens being the hub of the home today, they often require a spot for keeping the household organized. We need a place to sort our mail, charge our devices, stash cookbooks, plan menus, keep track of schedules, pay bills and more.<br />
But sometimes there’s enough room in the kitchen only for a mini-office. Here are six key features of a successful kitchen workspace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjt7fv0Q4Zzy8h3MNI56EFoSp2ZLuvt4PzchDTzFbJaf_S2e_3wwdWmdkSTlVgMCn4kHUQd5-ILhGDMQAqU6UHDCWY3M7KB3aH3Z4ccebldm84EqtRzuEjyl9YhBOrYDze5VfbMp2-Gs/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVjt7fv0Q4Zzy8h3MNI56EFoSp2ZLuvt4PzchDTzFbJaf_S2e_3wwdWmdkSTlVgMCn4kHUQd5-ILhGDMQAqU6UHDCWY3M7KB3aH3Z4ccebldm84EqtRzuEjyl9YhBOrYDze5VfbMp2-Gs/s320/1.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
1. Is located out of the kitchen work zone. Whether you’ve set up the popular work triangle or work zones, you’ll need the kitchen office to be close yet out of the way. <br />
<br />
The far corners of the room are good locations. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBfQRtW1v6EUFCXVlWK3PZMn-_giY6IsB-9SCneeBgP78zr5TyHynKIKASn2Z6lmZLfZIXcqI_o3fPkc9ZcPdm-ns5iec5wrAsVME7t5KJ38K7U6oMQjPRb-Y2SCfRCEX1BwGH3OppAlQ/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBfQRtW1v6EUFCXVlWK3PZMn-_giY6IsB-9SCneeBgP78zr5TyHynKIKASn2Z6lmZLfZIXcqI_o3fPkc9ZcPdm-ns5iec5wrAsVME7t5KJ38K7U6oMQjPRb-Y2SCfRCEX1BwGH3OppAlQ/s320/2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So are spots nestled just beyond the main kitchen work area, such as bays or nooks like this. The main part of this kitchen is to the right of this workspace. Cherry provides contrast to the white cabinetry in the rest of the kitchen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8WeYNOqJD4J9WK44mL3bOQEEQOlJXRYV-GGSx-BnZbft9eICraok2cFJHer6iHXTESS8Arf2Z9_5ZxzpEHYfAoZhyphenhyphenoF5m_IV2-zFBjKJhrMAbCS8YgMq4Dg0DE59Lbs4fUt8s4Qy9Gg/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8WeYNOqJD4J9WK44mL3bOQEEQOlJXRYV-GGSx-BnZbft9eICraok2cFJHer6iHXTESS8Arf2Z9_5ZxzpEHYfAoZhyphenhyphenoF5m_IV2-zFBjKJhrMAbCS8YgMq4Dg0DE59Lbs4fUt8s4Qy9Gg/s320/3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This wall-mounted desk is still part of the kitchen but is tucked just beyond the cabinetry and work zones. The desk is simply a stone top and floating drawer held up by steel brackets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51LQuQpr8bL4LEIclGCaASXYjqjHdyR2uyNPIlRrneGxBL8BRGVETu7BC3Qmzku6gz2KlG_84oo01qHwTIqCq2ymAvuq4AEegEIkB4Ta3nIgI1zpDwIG1krCQ7cPmNMHfwOTYhVLJZSA/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51LQuQpr8bL4LEIclGCaASXYjqjHdyR2uyNPIlRrneGxBL8BRGVETu7BC3Qmzku6gz2KlG_84oo01qHwTIqCq2ymAvuq4AEegEIkB4Ta3nIgI1zpDwIG1krCQ7cPmNMHfwOTYhVLJZSA/s320/4.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If space is tight, consider incorporating a secretary desk in your cabinetry. The work surface folds up to hide your mess. For a solution like this, place the desk at a height that will work with your counter stools or kitchen chairs, so you can just drag one over when it’s time to get to work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTi3aMT0MnOacJpMPo2twq0oWSiEwcwwI3Pp9B2ma75JZxvYXKEo7jlf7tcU6CgT3UMH6oC_p41RrEJOACQ0tFzZOjISe114xR9RKmpZbTyzrNHZpWEEmFUwCnlrLDgLTZR3zCojKPnUU/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTi3aMT0MnOacJpMPo2twq0oWSiEwcwwI3Pp9B2ma75JZxvYXKEo7jlf7tcU6CgT3UMH6oC_p41RrEJOACQ0tFzZOjISe114xR9RKmpZbTyzrNHZpWEEmFUwCnlrLDgLTZR3zCojKPnUU/s320/5.JPG" width="268" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2. Has places for corralling and charging electronics. One thing many of us didn’t have to consider during our last kitchen renovation was the personal devices that seem to need an endless supply of wires and juice. Phones, tablets, laptops and their wires can quickly take over your outlets and counters. Cooking and delicate electronic equipment are a terrible mix. Providing room above this desk keeps things out of the way in this kitchen. <br />
<br />
Another lovely detail worth noting is the waterfall counter that extends across the desktop and down to the floor. This picks up on a similar detail on the kitchen island in the same room.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9nFuoyR159ax3OIZFTke6hiuAKwV3SeqFuogEM0ElsmSICTQRoBrqIp3oP0-_wjtylL2GVfMc8QE4rYKQtphiyhdkc8w6Ng5EDVQsRgrCLqH1eH-_JZ4z7K2jW2tUJNeDUwAjXWc6e0/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9nFuoyR159ax3OIZFTke6hiuAKwV3SeqFuogEM0ElsmSICTQRoBrqIp3oP0-_wjtylL2GVfMc8QE4rYKQtphiyhdkc8w6Ng5EDVQsRgrCLqH1eH-_JZ4z7K2jW2tUJNeDUwAjXWc6e0/s320/6.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Locating outlets above the desk surface makes it easier to plug in everything you’ll need. If those outlets have built-in USB ports, you’ll eliminate the need to keep track of the charge boxes that contain plugs and USB ports.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-p9hHB9PqVw7njcGY9U_zzXlVm1OWtDsxHS7FX_J3MN0c0Y5sl8FCwR3Ce8Uxwp3s9rjP7ZOM1UrxYTJSzri-8tONsdkPM-oNE2BbjKetKQbptZfsg8GozODVqo_30vip8VzGSGjWWY/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3-p9hHB9PqVw7njcGY9U_zzXlVm1OWtDsxHS7FX_J3MN0c0Y5sl8FCwR3Ce8Uxwp3s9rjP7ZOM1UrxYTJSzri-8tONsdkPM-oNE2BbjKetKQbptZfsg8GozODVqo_30vip8VzGSGjWWY/s320/7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Also, electricians can install outlets inside drawers, so you can keep your devices safely inside while they charge. <br />
<br />
<br />
If your kitchen desk serves as your sole home office space, you won’t want printers, scanners and fax machines junking it up. An appliance garage is a good solution for keeping these things handy yet hidden. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5kyuCtNbGA86VSJihSibu_4NfwL08KfAOQHgp9vZvkIsq-lR8hQ-ukjOR0FdYyAEMx-h4ZU03UrHW2E6dSuv9QGKbm4GNiewAhxTv-dxvj1gO6sPOhZ9uA42XXiShZGXpt7az3winjU/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5kyuCtNbGA86VSJihSibu_4NfwL08KfAOQHgp9vZvkIsq-lR8hQ-ukjOR0FdYyAEMx-h4ZU03UrHW2E6dSuv9QGKbm4GNiewAhxTv-dxvj1gO6sPOhZ9uA42XXiShZGXpt7az3winjU/s320/8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The rolling door typically seen on appliance garages is called a tambour door and is readily available at home improvement stores. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrSywb5DoTxSEtdUmAfoQVHOU14yzTAm7ha5N_yKcP4ogz-e0-zURh47WRsBatXP5hGu8LcB6N8Qh95yC2KN-jNo2QaUcvJGqzlPOtnCPVeruKGFexKidHvatOiE0jbqGAavnE9ZVnbQ/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrSywb5DoTxSEtdUmAfoQVHOU14yzTAm7ha5N_yKcP4ogz-e0-zURh47WRsBatXP5hGu8LcB6N8Qh95yC2KN-jNo2QaUcvJGqzlPOtnCPVeruKGFexKidHvatOiE0jbqGAavnE9ZVnbQ/s320/9.JPG" width="237" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
3. Includes ample storage space. If you do a lot of paperwork at your kitchen desk, you’ll need good spots to tuck it away. If you’re a filer, file cabinets can be customized to fit seamlessly with your kitchen cabinets. If you’re a piler, baskets and shelves inside other cabinets can keep your piles organized. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PVjypRoG_dQbz4AKuQo9gy9nAUEopSXHlRoAIj1hJZBX9PEWsRFbulHLgAoalQzX6MFptY3dyxlLpICqUsTD6J9AgvguxnDJY6nnvmW5aJ4240lNPYyf0F0wU9UH4oBR891kZhiB0gI/s1600/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PVjypRoG_dQbz4AKuQo9gy9nAUEopSXHlRoAIj1hJZBX9PEWsRFbulHLgAoalQzX6MFptY3dyxlLpICqUsTD6J9AgvguxnDJY6nnvmW5aJ4240lNPYyf0F0wU9UH4oBR891kZhiB0gI/s320/10.JPG" width="274" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
4. Provides an organizational pit stop. If your kitchen desk area serves as your home’s command central, you’ll need to keep track of invitations, bills, business cards, appointments and more. A corkboard is a great place to pin it all until you have time to pay the bill, add an event to the calendar or create that new contact listing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVoRbMXgLUpQzxFAGdgmQupgsz5VRePeNca7L4SixILE58No3MgTzw5OxeHCl5y_wC0bc0phNEihfkTMnlVHlMiuWyW0PJl5zD9G17fXM5w9vPi2dYjI6rtke4oe5fBL9R2e1Lgeh5rwc/s1600/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVoRbMXgLUpQzxFAGdgmQupgsz5VRePeNca7L4SixILE58No3MgTzw5OxeHCl5y_wC0bc0phNEihfkTMnlVHlMiuWyW0PJl5zD9G17fXM5w9vPi2dYjI6rtke4oe5fBL9R2e1Lgeh5rwc/s320/11.JPG" width="253" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This kitchen desk has a bit of everything for communication: custom corkboard, chalkboard, dry-erase board and calendar. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFm7tGTQ-VVw9TQ97ZOJ0t2dFfqYTq10XdxsEDV8zCgCM4QPKwVEIPlAoLqk5kI0e8cMz89EALu3AWrBk4gze29SAWFuUuoQMQ6sQDIWMc09TtB6hh7OJGBcAPZ9iMkYISIl5cB-a23co/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFm7tGTQ-VVw9TQ97ZOJ0t2dFfqYTq10XdxsEDV8zCgCM4QPKwVEIPlAoLqk5kI0e8cMz89EALu3AWrBk4gze29SAWFuUuoQMQ6sQDIWMc09TtB6hh7OJGBcAPZ9iMkYISIl5cB-a23co/s320/12.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
5. Includes shelves for cookbooks. Kitchen desk areas are a great place to pick recipes and plan menus. Keeping cookbooks and recipes handy in the kitchen is something we’ve always done, but it usually involved letting them hog valuable counter space or shoving them willy-nilly in cabinets designed for china. Today’s designers know to size up a cookbook collection and plan shelves accordingly, and the desk area is just the right spot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9YuqdX1f5_upeB-M7j53-BRTvXbZCkijh748mKH38MweNZF6Pv-ZN8eClYybeJ3p51F1xa_fcuqqA2UONwypy5nPE1waWZq3wvUzgWXJlGs0QEnVucsw3J2nE2j9y1gbtRVInhSYE0o/s1600/13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9YuqdX1f5_upeB-M7j53-BRTvXbZCkijh748mKH38MweNZF6Pv-ZN8eClYybeJ3p51F1xa_fcuqqA2UONwypy5nPE1waWZq3wvUzgWXJlGs0QEnVucsw3J2nE2j9y1gbtRVInhSYE0o/s320/13.JPG" width="241" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This extended kitchen desk incorporates plenty of space for cookbooks on the desktop, wall-mounted shelves and lower shelves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3QnInv6Z1oNCbImRbgWvRZGNgzn4SAKyTGmIIKV1EGN8o39JZGMdT549cESRlFdmsb-BY-SrNeYN88i72OToTeq2hWhUFvfFe52aoKfw04kASS_TnLXuJ-aSQC0IIYCZcbhqguzxkyU/s1600/14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3QnInv6Z1oNCbImRbgWvRZGNgzn4SAKyTGmIIKV1EGN8o39JZGMdT549cESRlFdmsb-BY-SrNeYN88i72OToTeq2hWhUFvfFe52aoKfw04kASS_TnLXuJ-aSQC0IIYCZcbhqguzxkyU/s320/14.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
6. Is well-lighted. Don’t count on your kitchen’s overhead lights for proper reading light. Here, undercabinet lighting keeps the desk space clear and illuminates the entire area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnI49bAteArXhXJ2awkTfgI8kgcWzBleKW2S9UQqHoy-nLVwjBYpx4kn4uyhM0XP1HDO-afbII2B17zdE04UGqRUxNJTxtx3_h5tzq6mqpyGjJ0VSk83uQVR02dGjUuc2qJL0hrKtTzw/s1600/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnI49bAteArXhXJ2awkTfgI8kgcWzBleKW2S9UQqHoy-nLVwjBYpx4kn4uyhM0XP1HDO-afbII2B17zdE04UGqRUxNJTxtx3_h5tzq6mqpyGjJ0VSk83uQVR02dGjUuc2qJL0hrKtTzw/s320/15.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you have the space, a task lamp or table lamp can add an interesting layer of light to your kitchen. This is the light to leave on during movie night, so you can get a snack without having to flip on the overhead lights in your kitchen. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgckpmNGSOdkzab_yo0RQHshaCnH6DThdLb-xa3SwBz4zRD4okaZFi3J73jIvhqTqEG7zSSmpT67ThpqocRKxbvrcDJB5pYWxmVFJCX1v0_Yius-qA2GRLywNj0mJ2H_ozdLRpgEhuXhVk/s1600/16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgckpmNGSOdkzab_yo0RQHshaCnH6DThdLb-xa3SwBz4zRD4okaZFi3J73jIvhqTqEG7zSSmpT67ThpqocRKxbvrcDJB5pYWxmVFJCX1v0_Yius-qA2GRLywNj0mJ2H_ozdLRpgEhuXhVk/s320/16.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-25155157367148880922015-12-30T05:29:00.002-08:002015-12-30T05:36:59.218-08:00Kitchen Confidential: 9 Trends to Watch for in 2016<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Kitchen Confidential: 9 Trends to Watch for in 2016</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7cpTisK_nyfqKp0kng7XMConM91Pm8HraGRLfqZ0GR9ARBxfgVeLXhuzoZqp3jTK1ZqtlnDOKJYAzJbJ1bwOaOZnOdy5v5lzXpmS0CpTsb8ZnBKI-tsjDIlBzqF6e9hDrBGyNMtOUoM/s1600/sider+rookley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7cpTisK_nyfqKp0kng7XMConM91Pm8HraGRLfqZ0GR9ARBxfgVeLXhuzoZqp3jTK1ZqtlnDOKJYAzJbJ1bwOaOZnOdy5v5lzXpmS0CpTsb8ZnBKI-tsjDIlBzqF6e9hDrBGyNMtOUoM/s400/sider+rookley.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you’re anticipating next year’s hottest kitchen trends, we’re right there with you. So what might the quintessential 2016 kitchen look like? We asked two interior designers for a sneak peek at what’s to come. Hi-tech workstations, ’80s glam and muted color schemes are just a few of the looks they say will lead the pack. Without further ado, here are nine trends they predict will define kitchen design in the new year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9CZw5MIxC6Ulo5IwxoxpPQZsyniT5XlVOIVvRvO-tV3exRle3o7VPuWgepZMqifAkQz-7Y2dDRZGHD51hvHrRAprfIdR4d_tDkXSRax90KvZeXiH5NNofsw0js6kivoU5DK0NJLPGJQ/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9CZw5MIxC6Ulo5IwxoxpPQZsyniT5XlVOIVvRvO-tV3exRle3o7VPuWgepZMqifAkQz-7Y2dDRZGHD51hvHrRAprfIdR4d_tDkXSRax90KvZeXiH5NNofsw0js6kivoU5DK0NJLPGJQ/s400/1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1. Soft, muted color palettes. Good news if you’re already thinking about switching up your color scheme: Kitchen colors are changing, according to interior designer Jane Lockhart. Though white motifs will still dominate, everything from cabinets to backsplashes will be done in less saturated tones. “Charcoal, grays and even neutral pastels like pale blue, pale green gray and tinted whites are the new alternative to the standard white,” she says. She also foresees kitchens sporting lighter wood tones, including walnuts, whitewashed woods and white oak in rift grain.<br /><br />Bold primary colors, on the other hand, will be placed on the back burner. Interior designer Gail Drury says they’re definitely out as accent colors. “Drier colors will become popular,” she says. “Muted blues and greens and pale yellow pastel will be used as accent colors.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoLjLgYOHUlV1GoCyIYbWp8-YAKvWNVDPvc8giodSeu_1nAebuxt4ehaobPRlCqY0Vm05-q34brB7ekPKoLY4Xn52oi-1NWFY4kStAxtpINaGSUoemMJn_b1g1vnZ8lFCXKYqIrH4Oys/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoLjLgYOHUlV1GoCyIYbWp8-YAKvWNVDPvc8giodSeu_1nAebuxt4ehaobPRlCqY0Vm05-q34brB7ekPKoLY4Xn52oi-1NWFY4kStAxtpINaGSUoemMJn_b1g1vnZ8lFCXKYqIrH4Oys/s400/2.JPG" width="287" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2. Smart spaces. Get ready for a hi-tech makeover. Both Lockhart and Drury predict more kitchens will have designated spots for smart devices next year. “Look for areas with hidden charging stations to store devices like phones and tablets so that they are always operable, at hand and charged,” Lockhart says. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnqOuPDU0GpI0Gdszq1k7DIBSHE_kEyORBOnBsYwm4GhuuxnK90nUI4FuXeC9XaCnxAdE3uWrRT8JxxWgJEfsd71m4TvSUFUhxBd2lwl_LnUcj8BIZ7fchXanF298WoKIXkrjXU7A9i0/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnqOuPDU0GpI0Gdszq1k7DIBSHE_kEyORBOnBsYwm4GhuuxnK90nUI4FuXeC9XaCnxAdE3uWrRT8JxxWgJEfsd71m4TvSUFUhxBd2lwl_LnUcj8BIZ7fchXanF298WoKIXkrjXU7A9i0/s400/3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3. An ’80s reboot. “The ’80s are back,” Lockhart says. Mirrored backsplashes, brass accessories and high-gloss surfaces aren’t dead by a long shot, but they’re more elegant and refined this time around. “An elegance not seen in the ’80s will be an incorporation of a variety of natural materials to remove the ‘plastic’ look of that great hair decade,” Lockhart says. Drury adds that homeowners will opt for brass with satin rather than shiny finishes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzQcxqGx3tMn5s7FGa9jeEsHvFc68A7OHJnp0da6tah3mTVgU3jqhjf27OmtATrn_iRMusexgBY6H01VDLcs5MeWXFJg5np5bw2cKz3yrwusXgnGnEzu73NeKqJeeXywNh9YDj_qWNag/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzQcxqGx3tMn5s7FGa9jeEsHvFc68A7OHJnp0da6tah3mTVgU3jqhjf27OmtATrn_iRMusexgBY6H01VDLcs5MeWXFJg5np5bw2cKz3yrwusXgnGnEzu73NeKqJeeXywNh9YDj_qWNag/s400/4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4. Metal range hoods. One of last year’s biggest trends was metallic finishes, be it copper, brass or bronze. However, homeowners went with small helpings of metal, primarily using faucets, pendant lights and cabinet pulls to incorporate this raw texture.<br /><br />In 2016, metal will assume a more dominant role in kitchen aesthetics and trump wood as the range hood of choice. “Wood mantle hoods are being replaced with metal hoods or ones that are a combination of wood and metal,” Drury says. If you’re planning to follow suit with next year’s fixation on neutral color tones, a metal hood can introduce a burst of contrast into your kitchen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtVrLndZRhtJLMnj12pgj_5W5x-FoLbcvrRFEgyw3p2_Adv9-d48eCLII7d_FVSji0eVAvnYPfsD6V9SS7igQ6Lt6kneuQKkBTYGMI3LOcPpItQGEP7caV6bQ_U-fQNfpmG0JvDejVkA/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtVrLndZRhtJLMnj12pgj_5W5x-FoLbcvrRFEgyw3p2_Adv9-d48eCLII7d_FVSji0eVAvnYPfsD6V9SS7igQ6Lt6kneuQKkBTYGMI3LOcPpItQGEP7caV6bQ_U-fQNfpmG0JvDejVkA/s400/5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5. Integrated kitchen-living spaces. Maybe your kitchen feels disconnected from the rest of your home. Maybe you want your cooking space to feel more accommodating. Either way, this trend could be for you. Lockhart anticipates more streamlined kitchen designs in which the kitchen converges with the home’s primary living space. “It will become part of the main living space even further,” she says. Designers will merge kitchens and living rooms by including hidden and integrated appliances.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0i94_9c_K0ubpGht8E3Bhk_kb-qqSZC0iZ2fqPyF59eEEDaU_TeFg_1EPU1aOGOXvNu-d43HewoaAofwsFmolB4oSocsdrXtLFsvB1pEG_RiTYdFIPhNx9K7_xvSR4OPy1ne8Gl947s/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0i94_9c_K0ubpGht8E3Bhk_kb-qqSZC0iZ2fqPyF59eEEDaU_TeFg_1EPU1aOGOXvNu-d43HewoaAofwsFmolB4oSocsdrXtLFsvB1pEG_RiTYdFIPhNx9K7_xvSR4OPy1ne8Gl947s/s400/6.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">6. A new kind of tradition. While it’s no surprise that present-day kitchens are embracing simple design, Lockhart expects traditional spaces to hop on board too. “Even traditional kitchens may experience a slightly cleaner feel with bold lines and less fussy details,” she says. <br /><br />But Lockhart says it isn’t the end of traditional design as we know it. It just means homeowners will opt for fewer frills and more calculated, strategically placed details. “Traditional designs will always remain popular, but future renditions will be more deliberate with an emphasis on key elements like hoods, islands, cabinet crowns and so on,” she says.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjai6_2S0dghKlOagzGAdA5iF_oeXvyu3HsxkvTBrt9KgujHcO2xAPpBvPvtfTv7Or9aef91stSmAef8Nrv2HqKAGchVgA9dqR4m4X-hTOOknWQ0PXI27tiKkw7iu9z8SP2NKbb6IrjCDE/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjai6_2S0dghKlOagzGAdA5iF_oeXvyu3HsxkvTBrt9KgujHcO2xAPpBvPvtfTv7Or9aef91stSmAef8Nrv2HqKAGchVgA9dqR4m4X-hTOOknWQ0PXI27tiKkw7iu9z8SP2NKbb6IrjCDE/s400/7.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> 7. Texture-on-texture contrast. It’s time to reimagine contrast in 2016. Drury says variations in texture will rule, rather than traditional methods of contrast. “Strong contrasting designs are being replaced with more texture-on-texture designs,” she says. <br /><br />It won’t be about mixing and matching textures, though. Instead, designers will reposition the same texture in different patterns throughout the kitchen. “The same exact stone can be finished three ways and combined in the same space,” Drury says. “The difference is very subtle but at the same time makes a statement about attention to detail.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkCGQxlklVeFgGfgS9gHIRKYo4j_UDOTZTUFcILaa1A7Lx89A5R4JilkunG1vjfmL_CcpuE2vIw55h6kYvxopwp9WgVk-HzbcxBPqG9JHaclbExPqhRnDJ2r7vH8AD95l005aOaNpF-g/s1600/8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkCGQxlklVeFgGfgS9gHIRKYo4j_UDOTZTUFcILaa1A7Lx89A5R4JilkunG1vjfmL_CcpuE2vIw55h6kYvxopwp9WgVk-HzbcxBPqG9JHaclbExPqhRnDJ2r7vH8AD95l005aOaNpF-g/s400/8.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">8. A nod to midcentury mod. Lockhart credits this trend to the popularity of midcentury modern furniture and says the period design will trickle down to kitchens. “To some extent, this is already occurring with the increasing use of walnut in islands and cabinet doors,” she says. “But look for more kitchen styles that offer a nod to ’60s modern style, also called Nordic style.” You can get in on this minimalist movement by choosing predominantly white color palettes, designing with light wood textures and clearing away unnecessary clutter. Nordic design is all about simplicity and functionality.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglY-Amq1-yol5qdz2Gnqy77OCMfdB50IaxZMvbwI95LN3FDOSv3EFU3WztdA7xduJKY58nhDKmmQhyEvAEPRMduwK4niod8i4wMBLvzLi7baBiPe6hYnVtfkr0XftLh9Vh-p6zsdPio4A/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglY-Amq1-yol5qdz2Gnqy77OCMfdB50IaxZMvbwI95LN3FDOSv3EFU3WztdA7xduJKY58nhDKmmQhyEvAEPRMduwK4niod8i4wMBLvzLi7baBiPe6hYnVtfkr0XftLh9Vh-p6zsdPio4A/s400/9.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And remember when appliances were clad in color? That midcentury trend is making a comeback too. “Colored sinks, backsplashes and accent cabinets are all items with stronger hues that were previously considered to be neutral elements,” Lockhart says. “Even appliances like slide-in stoves and countertop appliances are taking on color to add a more modern feel with pops of energy throughout the space.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQP2H_b6M78IgYIcVepnoE7ujXIHsa8AXbSvc8NWtixHlmQn-e4AUvfsz_WBGR0MZcvdjvuqmJctP5w27s92lCG55ptjlSpAGmhQYSEk52JIw-mt3KxBA3hMrxYFpVvs2dWSopP9t-Gt8/s1600/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQP2H_b6M78IgYIcVepnoE7ujXIHsa8AXbSvc8NWtixHlmQn-e4AUvfsz_WBGR0MZcvdjvuqmJctP5w27s92lCG55ptjlSpAGmhQYSEk52JIw-mt3KxBA3hMrxYFpVvs2dWSopP9t-Gt8/s400/10.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">9. Well-lit cabinetry. Homeowners won’t settle for just ceiling lights and table lamps to illuminate their kitchens. The two designers say extensive cabinet lighting is a trend to watch. “Low-voltage light tape strips are used as accent pieces below cabinets, above cabinets, inside cabinets and below countertop overhangs,” Drury says. “LED lights are the norm.” These features will be grouped with recessed can lights to offer better mood-setting capabilities.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.</span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-45444371112745738302015-10-30T12:01:00.001-07:002015-10-30T12:01:37.020-07:00Mastic vs Thinset – Which should I use?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mastic vs Thinset – Which should I use?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrT0b66P8iRNAToJC2BKYaUWd_scNkJu1OSMcSxcbqTR9yQAiTNxEaywM2Z7NoSHN-tSPMoMJvAW1m168Fg3ltkn8cwTQr8nOpD-Rn-MUrhTCZekViAZlYFxvxwwfPeALWfAzEbYKbPHw/s1600/trowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrT0b66P8iRNAToJC2BKYaUWd_scNkJu1OSMcSxcbqTR9yQAiTNxEaywM2Z7NoSHN-tSPMoMJvAW1m168Fg3ltkn8cwTQr8nOpD-Rn-MUrhTCZekViAZlYFxvxwwfPeALWfAzEbYKbPHw/s320/trowel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is Mastic?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mastic is an organic glue made from the sticky resin of the mastic tree. It’s available as a thin-liquid, thick glue, or a sticky paste. Liquid Nails® would be a notable example of the thin-liquid form where it comes in a caulking tube and squeezed out along a wall or joists to hold load-bearing walls and ceilings in place. It’s also used as a temporary hold for fixtures so they can easily be screwed into place by one person.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mastic as a tile adhesive has a number of drawbacks, since it’s organic, it can harbor mold in high-moisture areas, it also will re-liquefy when submerged in water and lose it’s adhesive strength. Some manufacturers are promoting their tile adhesive as water-resistant and safe when subjected to limited moisture exposure, they further claim that it can be safely used to tile the walls of tub surrounds. This is where we personally have questions. It’s not that we take issue with the specific language used by the manufacturers, we just have an issue with what we perceive as a disregard for reality when making their claim.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We feel that mastic tile adhesives are a great time-saver when laying tile, but knowing the laws of physics and nature, we feel that mastic adhesive is not appropriate for use anywhere where moisture is present. Although the manufacturer is correct in stating that tile will hold up to limited water exposure, who’d want to choose mastic over thinset when using it in area where limited water exposure could possibly end up being “more than limited”.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let’s say you tiled your shower using mastic and you shower in it daily. Everything will work out fine if your tiles remain properly sealed and no cracks form in the grout, and your shower-head performs perfectly. But what will happen if you’ve formed a tiny little crack in a tiny little area of your properly sealed tile where moisture not only penetrates, but has a tendency to wick and spread? Will your mastic adhesive hold up? What if the mastic does hold up when a little bit of moisture penetrates? What about the organic property of mastic? All that’s needed for mold growth is moisture and an organic food source. Mastic is food for mold! Another drawback is that mastic doesn’t provide much structural support and cannot be used to build up minor “off of level” imperfections in a floor. You’ll end up with more “tile lippage”, in the end this tile lippage will have an impact on the overall aesthetics of your tile project.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although there are drawbacks with mastic, there are advantages. Mastic has superior holding strength, easier to apply, and sets quickly. When used to tile walls it’s strength allows you to set tile, and if you’re good with eyeballing, you can set tile without the use of spacers. If you attempt to set wall tiles using thinset without spacers, you’ll end up with a bunch of tiles that have slid into each other before the thinset has had time to set, resulting in a giant mess.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is Thin-Set?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thin-set mortar is like Portland Cement, only thinner. It’s a mixture of cement, finely graded sand, and a water-retention compound that allows the cement to properly hydrate. You’ll find thin-set sold with the words “thin set cement”, “thin-set mortar”, “dryset mortar”, and “drybond mortar”. Whatever name you find it as, we’re talking about the same thing. Thinset is designed to adhere well in a thin layer that’s typically not greater than 3/16? thick. Thinset also provides structural support so that very minor adjustments in height can be made.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There’s also a medium bed thin set mortar which is a variation that’s used for slightly larger applications. This is used with large, heavy or thick tiles. Then there’s yet another variation of thin set for thick-bed installations. Thick bed installations generally are based on the traditional method of packing a mortar bed of a surface before installing the tile. The tile can be adhered to the mortar bed either while the mortar bed is beginning to dry or after the mortar bed has cured.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The advantages of thin-set is that it can be used in areas where there are high amounts of moisture present. Although thin-set is not waterproof, it is isn’t water soluble. When moisture is present, it will not return to a liquefied state as mastic would. Another advantage is that it’s inorganic and thus is not a food source for mold growth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Glass Tiles</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Glass is becoming an increasingly common material for backsplashes. Glass tiles can work as accent pieces or as the basis for the entire backsplash. This tile requires many special materials and processes for installing it properly, and one of these is the mortar. For a successful glass tile backsplash installation, you must use a white, latex-additive thinset mortar. This is crucial because glass is transparent, and the color of the adhesive can affect it. Glass is also nonporous, so mastic cannot dry properly behind it. Thinset cures by chemical changes, so no air is required for it to cure properly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate.</span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-57537968570946840352015-07-15T10:23:00.000-07:002015-07-15T10:23:07.252-07:00How To Clean Your Hardwood Floors - <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How To Clean Your Hardwood Floors - </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BWx5_vm8bVdH-XlXfeEZwtNmWEca91Bc2FjW3Pyo0mN397xo92lXMm10mNaPmDIAA3HhRKDrvczbqLFHzrK5f9aKiUqfq3OUPZ6xaIL4sshWiJ3d76WtVsvlpZ-FTBsky1OowTKgouw/s1600/hardwoodpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BWx5_vm8bVdH-XlXfeEZwtNmWEca91Bc2FjW3Pyo0mN397xo92lXMm10mNaPmDIAA3HhRKDrvczbqLFHzrK5f9aKiUqfq3OUPZ6xaIL4sshWiJ3d76WtVsvlpZ-FTBsky1OowTKgouw/s320/hardwoodpic.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Although installing hardwood flooring is usually more expensive than rolling out new carpet, it’s an investment worth considering, according to data from the National Association of Realtors. Surveys show that 54 per cent of home buyers are willing to pay more for a house with hardwood floors. The question now: What’s the best way to clean and care for that popular flooring and keep that natural beauty (and value) shining through? Here’s how.<br /><br />It’s not the wood — oak, maple, mesquite, bamboo, engineered hardwood or something more exotic — that determines how the floors should be cleaned, but rather the finish.<br /><br />Surface finishes, often referred to as urethanes or polyurethanes, are among the most popular treatments today and are usually applied to hardwood floors after installation to protect them and make them more durable and water resistant. These finishes create a protective barrier. There are four types of surface finishes, according to the American Hardwood Information Center (AHIC): water based, oil based, acid cured and moisture cured.<br /><br />Homes built before 1970, including historic residences, may have original wood floors that were sealed with varnish, wax or shellac. These require a different approach to cleaning. The AHIC says these types of finishes work by penetrating the wood to colour the planks and form a protective shield. Using a wax coating after staining provides a barrier against wear and tear and gives the floor a beautiful low-gloss satin sheen. The classic look requires a little extra TLC, however, since water-based products and mopping can damage the finish.<br /><br /><br />How to Determine Your Wood Floor Finish - <br /><br />To figure out whether or not your wood floors are finished with a polyurethane, shellac, wax or varnish, or have a finish that has worn away and is no longer providing coverage, the AHIC suggests these tests:<br />Run your hand over the wood. If you can feel the texture of the grain, the floor has a “penetrating” finish (usually a combination of a natural oil, such as linseed or tung oil, mixed with additives for drying) topped with wax.<br />In an out-of-the-way spot, dab on a little paint remover. If the finish bubbles up, it is a surface finish, like polyurethane, which coats the floor in a protective layer.<br />In an out-of-the-way area, place a few drops of water. If the water beads up and does not soak into the wood, the finish on the floor is intact. If the water is absorbed into the floor or leaves a dark spot, the wood is unfinished or the protective layer has worn away.<br />If you sprinkle on a few drops of water and white spots form beneath the droplets after about 10 to 15 minutes, the floors are sealed with wax. To remove the white spots, use a piece of fine steel wool lightly dampened with wax and rub gently.<br />If you suspect a varnish or shellac, take a coin and scratch the surface of the floor in an inconspicuous corner. If the floor has been sealed with one of the older finishing methods, it will flake off.<br /><br /><br />Preventing Dirty Wood Floors - <br /><br />Not wearing shoes in the house is one of the best ways to significantly reduce dirt, scuffs and daily wear and tear, and lessen cleaning time.<br /><br />The National Wood Floor Association, or NWFA, is more specific and warns against walking on wood floors with cleats, sports shoes and high heels. It also offers this cautionary example: A 125-pound woman walking in high heels has an impact of 2,000 pounds per square inch. Furthermore, an exposed heel nail can exert up to 8,000 pounds of force per square inch.<br /><br />Whether you got out your calculator or not, the possibility of impact and denting appears to be undeniable. However, while you can’t always ask guests to shed shoes at the door, it might be a policy worth considering for family members.<br /><br /><br />What Not to Do - <br /><br />No matter what type of wood flooring you have, the NWFA advises against using cleaning products meant for vinyl or tile flooring. Their take: Self-polishing acrylic waxes cause wood to become slippery and appear dull quickly.<br /><br />Another no-no: wet-mopping wood floors, since standing water can dull the finish, damage the wood and leave a discolouring residue. Along the same lines, avoid overwaxing unfinished wood floors in an attempt to restore luster. If a waxed floor has become dull, try buffing the surface instead.<br /><br /><br />Regular Wood Floor Cleaning - <br /><br />Cleaning floors with contemporary polyurethane wood finishes (for floors installed after 1970) starts with vacuuming, sweeping or dust-mopping the surface.<br /><br /><br />Vacuuming. - <br />Vacuum wood floors daily, or at least once a week with a vacuum fitted with an attachment for wood floors. For regular machines, the AHIC advises turning off interior rotating brushes or beater bars if possible.<br /><br />Regular vacuuming helps remove dust and dirt particles that play a leading role in scratching and dulling the surface of the floor.<br /><br /><br />Sweeping. - <br />The American Hardwood Information Center says choosing a broom with “exploded tips,” also known as synthetic fiber ends, is step one.<br /><br /><br />Damp mopping. -<br />Damp mopping should be done with a simple solution of pH-neutral soap (like dishwashing soap) and water; or one capful of a mild cleanser such as Murphy Oil Soap in a bucket of water; or a solution using products specially formulated for wood floors, such as Eco Mist Colloid W, Dr. Bonner’s or Method.<br /><br />In conscientious cleaning circles, controversy swirls around whether to use a mixture of vinegar and water for damp-mopping wood floors. Ultimately, everyone has to do what works best; however, within the past 10 years this method has lost favour, and popular belief now holds that the solution causes floors to dull more quickly and is not as effective as simple soap and water.<br /><br />To begin mopping, dampen the mop in the prepared solution, wring it out completely, and mop in the direction of the wood grain. Repeat as necessary. As the water in the bucket becomes dirty, dump it out and refill. Many experts (including Martha Stewart) believe scrubbing wood floors with a damp cloth by hand is the ultimate cleaning strategy — unless abundant square footage or protesting knees prove problematic.<br /><br />But avoid cloths or mops dripping with water. If your floors do get wet or worse, dry them immediately!<br /><br /><br />Another technique: - <br />After the floor has been swept or vacuumed, put your cleaning solution of choice in a spray bottle and mist the floor, then use a dry microfiber mop or cloth and mop in direction of the wood grain.<br /><br />It’s important to note that just because a floor is clean doesn’t necessarily mean it will be shiny. If the floor has lost its luster, it may be time to have it refinished professionally. Whatever you do, don’t wax a polyurethaned finish.<br /><br />What you should know before refinishing your floors<br /><br /><br />Unfinished or Waxed Floors - <br /><br />Unfinished or waxed floors, like those in older and historic homes, as well as floors in which the protective seal has worn away, should never be treated with water or liquid cleansers, which may penetrate, stain or warp the wood. Instead, according to cleaning experts, sweeping with a soft-bristled broom and vacuuming should be done as the primary line of defense. The NWFA says to step away from the mop: Never damp-mop a waxed floor.<br /><br />Beyond basic care, buffing and waxing the floors once or twice a year should maintain the shine.<br /><br />Old-fashioned shellacked floors are not common in most homes. However, if you find yourself the proud owner of this vintage flooring, regular care should include sweeping and vacuuming often. Avoid water and liquid cleansers.<br /><br /><br />Engineered Wood Floors - <br /><br />Engineered wood flooring is created with a thin veneer of hardwood fused atop a plywood base. The material is stronger and more durable than regular hardwoods, and as a result has become a popular choice.<br /><br />The cleaning procedure for this type of wood is the same as for hardwood floors with urethane finishes. Keep clean on a daily basis by sweeping and vacuuming and use a slightly damp mop as needed.<br /><br /><br />Painted Wood Floors - <br /><br />Painted wood floors make a strong style statement and are a clever way to disguise wood flooring in less than perfect shape. To clean them, sweep, vacuum or dust-mop regularly. Avoid scratching or damaging the painted surface by staying away from abrasive cleansers and opting for a simple soap and water solution for damp mopping. Experts suggest drying the surface immediately by hand to avoid streaking and unnecessary moisture.<br /><br />Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. </span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-24477305342828781752015-06-12T13:24:00.000-07:002015-06-12T13:24:47.220-07:00What is Formaldehyde? / What is a VOC? - <h2>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b> What is Formaldehyde? / What is a VOC? - </b></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmNGNnt72CwtZy9cCvhiJtzWK-T_WuVjDPfhZZUPZbzA3VReNilRDxqWw42SsdN2Wan_ixq6MntgtiBnmHxIDk7i5XH51UTqCXcocqm6wO6FwFz68ALnNjQKnK2uwXZk27ubCFnUqUWc/s1600/indoor-slide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmNGNnt72CwtZy9cCvhiJtzWK-T_WuVjDPfhZZUPZbzA3VReNilRDxqWw42SsdN2Wan_ixq6MntgtiBnmHxIDk7i5XH51UTqCXcocqm6wO6FwFz68ALnNjQKnK2uwXZk27ubCFnUqUWc/s320/indoor-slide.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What is Formaldehyde?<br /><br />Formaldehyde is an organic chemical commonly used in many applications - from industrial disinfectants to certain kinds of fabric. Formaldehyde is also commonly found in the adhesives used to make engineered and laminate flooring. These adhesives will off-gas trace amounts of free formaldehyde into the air in decreasing concentrations over time. Is this worrisome to have formaldehyde off-gassing into the air in your home? It depends on the concentration. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance, produced in small amounts by most living organisms. For this reason no wood product can truly be called formaldehyde free. Exposure to formaldehyde in higher concentrations may cause certain irritations such as sore throat, cough, scratchy eyes and nosebleeds. More worrisome is the fact that exposure formaldehyde has been shown to cause cancer. For this reason formaldehyde emissions from flooring products are strictly regulated. Flooring products must meet the E1 standard for formaldehyde emissions, at a minimum, to be legal for sale in Canada. Different resin systems produce levels of formaldehyde emissions. ‘Urea-formaldehyde’ (UF) resin systems are commonly used in the high density fiberboard (HDF) cores used for laminate flooring. Urea-formaldehyde resin is relatively inexpensive, but emits more free formaldehyde than other resin systems. In order to achieve the E1 standard for formaldehyde emissions manufacturers who utilize UF resins must add chemicals that bind the formaldehyde in the HDF; and ensure that their manufacturing process are carefully controlled. Alternative resin systems that may emit less formaldehyde are available, but are more expensive. Our laminate manufacturers achieve the E1 standard for formaldehyde emissions by using resin systems that contain ‘No Added Urea Formaldehyde’ (NAUF). So, it costs a little more to make laminate floors that qualify as E1. Obviously, this is a worthwhile expenditure. Engineered hardwood floors are commonly manufactured using a phenol-formaldehyde resin system. This particular technology emits far less free formaldehyde than the urea system. As such, engineered flooring producers usually have no trouble passing the E1 certification without any extraordinary measures. <br /><br /><br />What is a VOC? <br /><br />Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that become gasses very easily at room temperature. Formaldehyde is one type of VOC, but there are many others. Limiting emissions of total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), as well as excessive emissions of any one type of VOC, is generally considered to be important to maintaining good indoor air quality. VOCs are an important issue in the finishing industry. Major manufacturers in that sector have spent quite a bit of time researching how to minimize the effects of chemicals off-gassing, while finishes are applied. The finishes applied to our solid and engineered hardwoods rely on a special technology that uses UV light to cure the coating, after it is applied. UV light transforms the liquid coating to a solid polyurethane surface almost instantly. This particular process ensures that, in your home or building, no VOCs are emitted by our topcoat. UV finishing processes are also very good at minimizing VOCs emitted during the factory application process.<br /><br />In 2000, the European Panel Industry set forward a series of standards regulating the amount of free formaldehyde an HDF, MDF or plywood panel can off-gas. In order to qualify for the standard, manufactures must submit samples of the panels they produce to independent laboratories. These laboratories put the panel samples in a chamber and measure the amount formaldehyde emitted into the air in parts per million (ppm). Depending on the amount of formaldehyde measured panels may be classified as E0, E1, or E2. E0 is the classification with the lowest level of formaldehyde, E2 the highest. Mills that submit samples that exceed the standard for E2 are not classified. In order to label a product in accordance with the European regulations the manufacturer must submit panels for regular independent testing to an accredited laboratory. After testing the lab will issue the manufacturer with a certification. The California Air Resource Board (CARB) has also developed a set of standards for Formaldehyde emissions. The program is similar to the European program. Manufacturers must submit panel samples to independent laboratories, those labs measure formaldehyde emissions and issue certifications. Flooring products must achieve CARB certification to be legal for sale in California; but adoption of this standard is very widespread throughout the United States. Like the European program, a product cannot be called CARB compliant if it has not been independently tested and certified as such. The current CARB phase 2 standard for allowable emissions from MDF is .11 ppm. The E1 standard for the same product is .10 ppm. The test methodology differs for the two standards; but both standards regulate formaldehyde to levels that are low and safe. FloorScore is a voluntary standard for indoor air quality developed by the Resilient Floor Coverings Institute and an environmental auditing organization called SCS. In order to qualify as FloorScore certified, manufacturers must control emissions of VOCs and TVOCs at every step of the manufacturing chain. SCS verifies the manufacturer’s claims and issues certifications qualifying companies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stop by our store to see the latest samples or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide you with a free estimate. </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-40950378123619406542015-01-12T10:15:00.001-08:002015-01-12T10:15:29.607-08:00What to Do About Chipped or Broken Tiles in the Bathroom?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What to Do About Chipped or Broken Tiles in the Bathroom?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtDZMYEgC5hpSMTA5XhqPtvA1csSqIQ-fSghOXZCtSxEeybazRLWzC4-4V1Z8C023jpYxwRMHFie2l_MUZwsXyUFgyMftai7ZEpTC7lbvgnyFE3zFsl_eqtaIIiZ5toWcIY_fxAG1Deo/s1600/tile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtDZMYEgC5hpSMTA5XhqPtvA1csSqIQ-fSghOXZCtSxEeybazRLWzC4-4V1Z8C023jpYxwRMHFie2l_MUZwsXyUFgyMftai7ZEpTC7lbvgnyFE3zFsl_eqtaIIiZ5toWcIY_fxAG1Deo/s1600/tile.jpg" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When your bathroom floor has chipped or cracked tiles, it’s wise to take some kind of action.<br /><br />It may signal something bigger than a simple cosmetic issue. <br /><br />The good news is that it’s usually possible to replace individual tiles.<br /><br />It depends on the type of tile, size of the tile and how it’s set. <br /><br />The most difficult type of tile to chisel out is porcelain tile, because it’s extremely tough and durable, and very difficult to break apart. <br /><br />Marble, contrary to popular belief, is probably one of the easiest types to break out, because it chips very easily.”<br /><br />Generally, the larger the tile, the easier it will be to replace, small mosaic-style tiles tend to be the most challenging.<br /><br />Another variable is the strength of the adhesive used to install the floor, which could be a rubber-based glue or cement-based thinset.<br /><br />To try removing the tile, start by scoring the grout around it with a utility knife. Then use a chisel to chip the tile at one corner. Finally, take a small chisel or screwdriver and try to pry the tile out of place.<br /><br />It has to be done carefully and patiently. Otherwise you risk damaging the adjacent tiles, and the problem just continues to grow.<br /><br />If you’re successful at removing the tile, make sure the subfloor is smooth (you can use the chisel to remove old thinset), then install a replacement tile with new adhesive.<br /><br />To finish, regrout the whole floor, because new grout typically looks different than existing grout.<br /><br />If the damaged tile resists clean removal, or you end up damaging other tiles, it may be time for a larger repair. <br /><br />Stop by our store or give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-18725207249720853962014-09-30T08:08:00.003-07:002014-09-30T08:08:31.981-07:00The 6 Biggest Bathroom Trends Of 2015 Are What We've Been Waiting For -<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The 6 Biggest Bathroom Trends Of 2015 Are What We've Been Waiting For -</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This year,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/16/2014-kitchen-of-the-year_n_5829526.html" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">the kitchen as we know it completely changed</a>. Shelving opened up, cabinets went darker and metallic accents moved well beyond cabinet knobs. But come 2015, we can expect to see a major overhaul in a different room of the house -- the bathroom. Everything from sinks and color schemes to tubs and tiles will see some sort of upgrade, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association's style report as well as the trends we've seen in the decor sphere, and this is how we expect interior designers and homeowners everywhere to go about it...<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: Coastal Cottage Style<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Clean Contemporary</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">According to<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.nkba.org/Press/Releases/2014PressReleases/2014NKBATrendsSurveyKitchen.aspx" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">the National Kitchen and Bath Association's style report</a>, more than 400 designers agreed there is a move toward simplicity in a cleaner, more contemporary way. That's not to say they are going to completely lose their more cozy, rustic charm for all-out glamour, but they will have cleaner lines and more minimalist modern vibe.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="contemporary bathroom" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102420/thumbs/o-CONTEMPORARY-BATHROOM-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: Rain Showers<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Soaking Tubs</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Forget about glass-encased showers -- these days it's all about the soaking and free-standing tubs, so much so that<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.expressnews.com/lifestyle/home-garden/article/Bathroom-trends-serene-and-clean-5767167.php" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">we can actually expect a decline in standard tubs</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>with shower-surrounds.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="contemporary bathtub" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102196/thumbs/o-CONTEMPORARY-BATHTUB-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: Bowl Sinks On Cabinets<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Under-Mounted Leggy Sinks</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Looks like you're going to have to find somewhere else to stash those toiletries, because<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/the-new-bathroom-sink-tub-and-tile-trends-for-2014-and-beyond-207839" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">under the sink won't be a "trendy" choice</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>next year. Also not so "in" anymore? Those bowl-shaped sinks we loved a few years back.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="contemporary bathroom" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102152/thumbs/o-CONTEMPORARY-BATHROOM-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: White Paint<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Shades Of Gray</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/05/best-paint-colors_n_4541684.html" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">Say sayonara to all the white</a>. While it's still an incredibly popular choice for bathroom colors (along with blue and beige), the National Kitchen and Bath Association also found it to be the fastest-growing shade for the bathroom.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="gray bathroom home decor" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102162/thumbs/o-GRAY-BATHROOM-HOME-DECOR-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: Granite Vanities<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Quartz Countertops</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Despite what you may think from watching all that HGTV,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/07/granite-countertop-alternatives_n_5639237.html" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_hplink">there are options out there besides granite</a>. Quartz, a huge player for 2015, is one of them.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="quartz countertops" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102176/thumbs/o-QUARTZ-COUNTERTOPS-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Out With The Old: White Subway Tile<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />In With The New: Sleek, Black Tiles</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why let kitchens have all the fun with the dark, moodier features? Those trends are here to stay so skip the subway tile and opt for something bolder.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a class="pinitshareimage pinhidden" data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-hover="true" href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2014%2F09%2F26%2Fbathroom-trends-2015_n_5883856.html%3Fcps%3Dgravity&media=http%3A%2F%2Fi.huffpost.com%2Fgen%2F2102202%2Fthumbs%2Fo-CONTEMPORARY-BATHTUB-570.jpg%3F1&description=contemporary%20bathtub" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #5c84cc; display: block; line-height: inherit; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; max-height: 20px; padding: 0px; position: absolute; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; z-index: 999999;" target="_blank"><img src="http://assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></a><img alt="contemporary bathtub" src="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/2102202/thumbs/o-CONTEMPORARY-BATHTUB-570.jpg?1" style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span>Stop by our store and have a look! </span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span>or - Give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; direction: ltr; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span></span></div>
Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-49282117742944954992014-07-17T13:42:00.000-07:002014-07-17T13:42:48.257-07:00Concrete-Look Ceramics for an Industrial Look - <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Concrete-Look Ceramics for an Industrial Look - </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img src="http://www.ceramicarondine.it/media//catalogimages/1DA/HD_AMB_1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /><br />Inspired by disused warehouses, abandoned factories and industrial buildings, this is a style that gives a contemporary makeover with an urban twist to your home. <br />What solutions for floors and walls are best for creating this kind of look? <br />This is a trend that has its roots in the US building styles of the 1950s, adopted with conviction also in Europe from the 1970s onwards, and it derives from constructions once used for industrial manufacturing or material storage. <br />It first took hold in the Big Apple for practical, functional reasons rather than as a question of style, and the intention was to recover abandoned premises and turn them into residential complexes. Large, open-plan constructions with high ceilings and large windows were the hallmarks of such homes, which were soon settled in by artists and members of US bohemian society. An example? The Factory of Andy Warhol, which generated a host of artistic and cultural stimuli under the aegis of pop art. <br /><br />This new industrial revolution soon spread like wildfire, and Europe has also been won over by its vintage allure and the rough-look ambience created by open-beam structures, pale-coloured plaster, bricks and resins. <br />To give a contemporary touch to your home, go for furniture with an aged look, created using materials such as iron and wood. <br />Simple, recycled pieces combine marvellously with standing lamps and suspension spotlights. Soft leather sofas positioned close to a cast-iron stoves, details and accessories picked up at antiques markets – all these are ideal solutions for the sitting room. <br />In the kitchen, the best choice to go for is clearly visible worktops, with a wood or plywood top dinner table.<br /><br />AND WHAT ABOUT THE FLOORS AND WALLS?<br />For an authentic industrial-style penthouse, the ideal choice is a porcelain stoneware floor that mimics the effect of stone slabs and time-worn concrete.<br />The tiles enhance all the allure of a floor worn down by the passage of time and footsteps, and are the perfect complement to an urban, metropolitan look. They come in colours like almond, black, light, gray, olive and sand.<br />Ideal for both residential and public areas, these ceramic tiles look magnificent with minimalist-style interior design elements.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Stop by our store and have a look! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">or - Give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-54795196519928180642014-04-23T07:01:00.001-07:002014-04-23T07:02:31.112-07:00Shower Tile Basics or Shower Tile 101<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Shower Tile Basics or Shower Tile 101</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img class="irc_mut" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJis7ZTnuht_-_3OaFJRUVJ_zhp5JYOcEo02151m2Ct80R8oUyN7BtKLbBTDjTGw4Y38-pWG_2uoij4T0nLPSnqub_IXJmkxqSRW7wa-9gllR2zukfJsucWPow4InWdjar2MxYC6BuK48/s1600/IMG_0124.JPG" height="265" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Leaks<br /><br />First and foremost – tile is not waterproof. Grout is not waterproof. Adding sealer to your tile or stone will not make it waterproof. Your shower should be completely waterproof before a box of tile is even opened! No matter which waterproofing method you choose, proper substrate preparation is the only thing that will make your shower waterproof.<br /><br />If you have a leak in your shower – stop using it immediately if at all possible. If that is not possible (it’s your only shower) have the shower repaired – immediately. If you see water leaking it is likely not nearly as much water as you don’t see leaking into your wall cavity and structural framing. By the time you ‘see’ most leaks the framing is normally already considerably compromised.<br /><br />No, there is nothing you can put over your tile to make your shower waterproof if you have a leak – not even sealer. A tile or stone sealer is made to make your tile and grout stain-resistant, not waterproof. It does this by sealing the pores of the tile and stone to slow (NOT STOP) the absorption of liquid and prevent staining. It only means you have more time to clean up the spilled red wine cherry kool-aid before it stains anything.<br /><br />Substrates<br /><br />Drywall is not an acceptable substrate for your shower. Use a waterproofing membrane – that’s it. Cement backerboards are the standard and there are also other products such as waterproofed, gypsum based boards like Denshield and waterproofed, foam-based sheets like wedi or kerdi board.<br /><br />Cement backerboards are not waterproof. They are water stable, which simply means that they will not swell or disintegrate when exposed to moisture or water – they won’t change size. But they are just like your driveway, they will soak in water, hold water, and dry out, just like your driveway when it rains. If using backerboards there needs to be a waterproof membrane utilized as well.<br /><br />Membranes<br /><br />If you are using a topical waterproofing membrane such as a liquid like hydroban, or a sheet like kerdi, do not use a moisture or vapor barrier behind your substrate. If you have a vapor or moisture barrier behind your substrate do not use a topical membrane on the front of it. This combination creates two waterproof barriers with your substrate sandwiched between them. any vapor or moisture trapped between them has absolutely no way to dissipate. This is lovingly referred to as a ‘mold sandwich’. It is not tasty. Use either a moisture or vapor barrier behind your substrate or a topical membrane on the face of it. One or the other – never both.<br /><br />If you are using a topical membrane and you have an exterior wall with either plastic facing or kraft paper facing you need to cut slits into that facing before installing your substrate. If you do not it will create the aforementioned mold sandwich. Give moisture or vapor somewhere to dissipate.<br /><br />Shower-tub transitions<br /><br />There should be a gap between your tub or acrylic shower base and the bottom of your backerboard. If you are using a traditional barrier waterproofing method you do not need to do anything with this gap. Do not fill it with silicone! This will trap moisture running down your barrier and it will have nowhere to go. If you are using a topical method you can fill it with silicone if you want. If you are using liquid you should fill it with silicone. This creates a waterproof plane between your membrane and the tub or base so water or moisture ends up in the drain rather than in your wall.<br /><br />When you tile you can tile right over that gap. You should not fill this gap with thinset behind the tile – it will crack due to movement. Your wall and tub or base will expand and contract at different rates – it will crack any cement-based product you place between the two. This includes thinset as well as grout. You do not need a solid backing behind your tile over this gap – it should be less than 1″ wide. You shouldn’t normally be walking on that tile in that particular spot. Yes, it can just hang there.<br /><br />Grout<br /><br />If your grout is cracking it is due to movement 99.9% of the time. Type ‘cracking’ into the search box up there and you’ll find in-depth explanations.<br /><br />If you have white, or lighter than normal grout when you’re finished grouting it may be efflorescence. This is mainly due to minerals in the water being left on the surface of the grout when the water evaporates. It is usually indicative of either incorrectly mixed grout or using too much water while cleaning the grout – not wringing out your sponge enough. This is normally only on the surface of your grout. Scratch the very top layer of your grout in an inconspicuous spot with your fingernail. If you have the correct, or at least a darker, color beneath the surface that is the likely cause. The easiest, quickest fix, provided it is only the very top layer, is to get some drywall sanding sponges and go over the grout lines very lightly. Just like burnt toast – scrape it to the color you like.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-52514892627787421052014-02-20T05:53:00.001-08:002014-02-20T06:00:52.405-08:00Hardwood Gapping<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hardwood Gapping</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img src="http://www.statewideinspection.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/wood-floor-gaps1-650x280.jpg" height="171" width="400" /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Here is some knowledge to pass on. After surviving the winter heating months which may last for several<br />months’ wood floors tend to shrink or gap as a direct result of the heat running - a direct result of low<br />Relative Humidity within the home. Furnaces tend to dry the air out and in turn the wood will dry out.<br />Because of this the wood industry recommend to maintain the relative humidity within a home<br />or building between 35%-55% and in doing so will minimize the expansion and contraction of the wood<br />floors. In some areas of the country whether due to low humidity in the region or because of extended<br />heating seasons a humidification system may be needed to help maintain the humidity within the<br />structure. The good news is that once we move out of the heating season the relative humidity typically<br />will go back up and the wood will gain some moisture that is now found within the air and the gaps will<br />close back up. This is known as seasonal gapping and is normal for wood floors.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />What does this mean to you? Typically we see receive more calls for gapping complaints at the end of<br />the winter months, and hopefully this will give you and your customers a better understanding of why<br />this happens. Remember that wood is hygroscopic – meaning that when exposed to air wood will either<br />gain or lose moisture until it is in equilibrium with the temperature and humidity of the air. Additionally<br />different species of wood will expand or contract at different rates due to their coefficient of expansion.<br />Hickory has a higher coefficient than Oak or Maple. Lastly the wider the plank the more expansion or<br />contraction is to be expected when the humidity becomes higher or lower.<br />To help combat low humidity there are a number of suggestions to help prevent the wood from drying<br />out in the winter months<br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1. Humidifier<br />2. Boiling water on the stove<br />3. Opening the dishwasher at the end of the wash cycle<br />4. Purchasing a hygrometer to monitor the relative humidity within the home</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="Moisture content of wood" src="http://www.pollmeier-flooring.com/pollmeier_e/bilder/MoistureContent.jpg" /></span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-34534972313277569422014-02-13T07:33:00.002-08:002014-02-13T07:37:21.642-08:00Countertops<br />
<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<img class="irc_mut" height="286" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.tinaandjoel.com/uploaded_images/2009-03-17-026-766508.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Question - <br /><br />I have my heart set on white-and-grey marble counters, but everyone tells me marble is a bad idea. I know you use marble all the time. I’ve heard it stains and chips. Why then are the majority of designer kitchens on Pinterest marble? Alternatives? Thoughts?<br /><br />Answer - <br /><br />Marble is porous and stains. Nevertheless, I’ve used it in several homes, including my own. With marble, particularly Carrera, you have to let go of the idea that your countertop will remain perfect.<br /><br />Like you, I had to have marble, and for the first couple of months at dinner parties, I would follow guests who were drinking red wine into my kitchen and try to look inconspicuous as I placed cocktail napkins under their glasses. I also banned lemons from the counter. Ridiculous, I know. With the first stain, my heart pounded so fast I thought it would fly out of my mouth (and stain the countertop!), but after the olive oil and coffee stains, the counter looked and felt less precious. On the bright side, the stains, or “patina,” make it look like I actually cook.<br /><br />What I’m saying is, if you’re looking for a flawless countertop, don’t choose marble.<br /><br />In fact, many countertop fabricators will try to dissuade you from using it because it needs to be sealed every three to six months and they know people can’t handle the stains, scratches and chips.<br /><br />These days, however, because marble alternatives look so real, what you’re looking at may not even be marble. Let’s take a survey of some of the look-alikes.<br /><br />Jonathan Wheeler of Latitude Countertops suggests light granite but favours Quartzite as a marble alternative. “Quartzite is a natural stone and the colour has varying tones of grey and white that looks like marble, but has a durability that’s similar to granite; because it’s less porous it’s less likely to stain, scratch and chip,” he says. <br /><br />Quartz, such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria and Hanstone, is made from 90% ground quartz and 10% acrylic resins. This man-made material feels like natural stone, as it’s cool to touch, but it’s non-porous, durable and easy to maintain. It doesn’t stain, chip or require sealing. <br /><br />Because marble alternatives look so real, what you’re looking at may not even be marble<br /><br />Quartz countertops come in many colours and patterns, including excellent marble facsimiles. “One of the big pros of quartz is the uniform veining that helps to make the seams less visible” Mr. Wheeler says. (With marble, “the direction of the veins have to match, otherwise your counter will look busy and the seams will become more obvious,” he says.)<br /><br />Acrylic countertops (also known as solid-surfacing material), such as Staron and Corian, are non-porous, seamless and easy to maintain. Scratches and mild burn marks can be buffed out. But the thermal shock of a hot pan on cold acrylic or quartz may crack the countertop and void its warranty. Acrylic countertops don’t feel like natural stone, but the look is pretty close. The cost starts at $65/sq. ft. installed.<br /><br />But if you’re absolutely set on having marble, you may want to boost your budget: More expensive varieties of marble — such as Calacatta, which has grey and brown veining, and Statuario, which is pure white with grey veins — are not as porous as Carerra, and so stain less. <br /><br />There is a lot of debate over honed versus polished marble. I find that designers prefer honed marble for its smooth matte finish. Because honed marble isn’t reflective, scratches, water marks and finger prints are less obvious. Countertop fabricators, on the other hand, are typically pro-polished marble. Polishing marble gives it a glossy finish that’s less porous and therefore less prone to staining.<br /><br />When I want to add raw and organic touch to a space, I choose honed. For a little glimmer, I prefer polished.<br /><br />Another option you may want to consider is using a marble backsplash tile to get the look you’re after (see the backsplash in the photo above, right), but pair it with a grey quartz countertop for practicality.<br /><br />To test stain tolerance (both yours and the marble’s), consider buying a 10-inch piece of marble. Seal one side, and then pour coffee, tea and red wine on it to see what happens.<br /><br />Happy countertop shopping.<br /><br />Give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we will provide a free estimate. <br /><br />Gayle Baltjes-Chataway</span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-38694403781780911992013-08-26T09:00:00.001-07:002013-08-26T09:01:03.265-07:00Cleaning your tile floors and walls - <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cleaning your tile floors and walls - </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <img height="315" id="irc_mi" src="http://c.shld.net/rpx/i/s/pi/mp/21962/400885305?src=http%3A%2F%2Fd3d71ba2asa5oz.cloudfront.net%2F53000624%2Fimages%2Fdup_10704.jpg&d=3cf1eb3ef058b0c078fe2eb09f7bbb2f6c085cc4" style="margin-top: 76px;" width="315" /></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Ceramic tile is unparalleled in the flooring industry for its durability. Properly installed and maintained, it could easily last the lifetime of your home. So how do we maintain it?<br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tile is completely stain resistant; it does not absorb liquids, or odours. But depending on the surface of the tile you’ve chosen, dirt and spills may be left on the tile especially on those textured slate-like finishes. <br /><br />Step One: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sweep or vacuum your floor to remove any dust, hair, debris<br /><br />Step Two: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Damp mop or if very dirty, get down on your hands and knees with a sponge or brush. Use a cleaning solution of warm water mixed with ammonia or a commercial cleaner such as Stonetech’s tile and stone cleaner (2 oz to 1 gallon for regular cleaning), mop your floor changing water often to ensure soil is not re-deposited. <br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Note: we do not recommend vinegar as it is an acid and can damage grout. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For shower walls and floors, you may wish to use a stronger cleaner (or less diluted version of the above) to remove soap scum. <br /><br />I definitely recommend using a soft brush on the shower floor tiles to remove residue. <br /><br />Step Three: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Rinse, squeegee walls, and allow to dry completely before using or walking on it. <br /><br />If it is your grout that needs some attention, please see our blog ‘cleaning and caring for your grout’ for more information. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you need extra help cleaning your tiles we are glad to do it for you - call me at the store to set up a free estimate - 905-892-5756</span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Gayle Baltjes-Chataway<br />
<br />
Star Tile Centre </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-90050914544401267422013-07-30T13:38:00.000-07:002013-07-30T13:38:05.422-07:00Need a mood change? Renovate!!<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Need a mood change? Renovate!!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img height="466" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.abhomeinteriors.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/AB-HOME-decorating.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="466" /></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A home renovation need not be an entirely new kitchen or bathroom. <br />Some inexpensive minor changes will freshen up your décor and your mood! <br /><br />Best suggestions:<br /><br />- a fresh coat of paint will add new life to any room. <br /><br />- or just paint a piece of furniture or vanity cabinet – add some new handles eh voila an entirely new look!<br /><br />- add a tile backsplash to your kitchen or vanity – be creative, a little tile can have huge visual impact and add a whole new dimension to the room! Suddenly the room comes alive again!<br /><br />- change accents – a couple new cushions or placemats can add a fresh palette of color and cheerfulness to your décor<br /><br />- go for a new light fixture - modernize the room and change the ambience too with a dimmer switch<br /><br />- what about a new faucet? There’s a huge selection today in every price range<br /><br />- add an area rug – the perfect carpet will pull a room together and add warmth and comfort<br /><br /> <br />Just because our present budget does not allow a drastic makeover is no reason to shy away from small changes that will refresh our rooms and satisfy our emotional wellbeing! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span>We are glad to do it for you - call me at the store to set up a free estimate - 905-892-5756</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span>Gayle Baltjes-Chataway<br />
<br />
Star Tile Centre </span></span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-50630253318331466032013-06-10T06:40:00.001-07:002013-06-10T06:40:47.224-07:00The importance of preparation - <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The importance of preparation - </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img height="265" id="irc_mi" src="http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k629/glynjamin/0c3e4255.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /><br />Regardless which type of flooring you may be considering, every floor will require some kind of subfloor preparation. Every installation is unique and will have its own preparations but time spent on preparing your plywood or concrete for new flooring – be it tile, vinyl, laminate, wood, or carpet, is time well spent for your overall satisfaction with the finished job. <br /><br /> Roughness or uneven sub floors will telegraph through new vinyl floors, not allow hardwood or laminate to lay straight or fit together properly, result in raised tile edges and create time consuming installation challenges.<br /><br /> Ideally sub floor flatness is 3/16 of an inch in 10 feet or less. In most cases, in a renovation, the existing flooring needs to be removed before a new floor can be installed to what we call a ‘flooring ready” state which means the sub floor should be:<br /><br />- clean<br />- smooth</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- structurally sound<br />- level</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- and dry</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Before new flooring can be installed. A moisture test is a good idea especially if hardwood is being considered. Know if any sealers or paints have been installed on concrete floors; they may need to be removed or ground off before a tile or glue down hardwood installation to get proper bonding of mortar or adhesive to the concrete substrate.<br /><br /> Make sure the floor is solid ; take the time to screw plywood sub floors down along the joists. Grind off loose concrete and high spots. <br /><br /> A common saying in the floorcovering industry is : “the finished floor is only as good as the base or the subfloor is”. It directly affects the performance of the finished material you choose. <br /><br />Many people think floating floors can be installed over anything and cover a myriad of challenges. In reality floating floors were not designed to cover a bad subfloor and will, in time, only magnify the problem if it is not corrected before installation. <br /><br /> There are many products and equipment available today to address the challenges of proper floor preparation. Do your homework, take the time to learn what needs to be done to prepare for your new investment, and you’ll be much happier with the end results. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Give us a call @ 905-892-5756 and we’ll assess your situation and provide a free estimate. <br /><br />Gayle Baltjes-Chataway</span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-69795663084609562172013-04-11T04:14:00.001-07:002013-04-11T04:14:56.969-07:00How to replace a tile<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> How to replace a tile</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <img height="300" id="irc_mi" src="http://0.tqn.com/d/flooring/1/0/3/-/-/-/5.gif" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Many of us have a cracked or chipped tile that we would really like to have repaired but are afraid of tackling it for fear of damaging the other tiles around it. If you were wise enough to keep a few leftover tiles, the job may be easier than you believe. <br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you have patience, are reasonably handy and have the right tools - a grout scraper, pry bar, hammer, and safety glasses – you could consider doing it yourself. <br /><br />Firstly, be sure to wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from the tiny bits of grout and tile, then use the grout rake remove the grout around the four edges of the damaged tile. Be sure to remove all the grout down to the mortar bed. <br /><br />Now you need to remove the tile itself. If you have a tile saw or grinder you can cut the tile in an X pattern down about ¼” deep, or use a hammer to smash the centre of the tile. Remove the tile using a chisel or pry bar and hammer from the centre out toward the edges. Break off small pieces at a time and carefully and slowly remove the tile shards. Once you have the tile removed, you will need to use a floor scraper to remove the adhesive under the tile down to the concrete or plywood substrate. <br /><br />Now it’s time to install the replacement tile. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mix the floor mortar, comb it into place using a ¼ square notched trowel. Set the new tile making sure it is level with the surrounding tiles. Let it set overnight then mix grout to match your existing, and apply to the joints. <br /><br />Eh voila another job well done! If you do not have the time or do not feel you are up to the challenge of tackling it yourself, generally it takes an hour or so to replace each damaged tile, so you can hire a skilled tradesman to do the work for you. Here at Star Tile, we have a dozen full time tile setters, available to complete the work for you. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Give us a call 905-892-5756 and we’ll assess your situation and provide a free estimate for the repairs. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span>Gayle Baltjes-Chataway</span><br /></span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-88150270414830186572013-04-01T05:30:00.001-07:002013-04-01T05:30:59.560-07:00Cleaning your carpets -<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cleaning your carpets -<br /> <img height="320" id="irc_mi" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9KvPdUAIX1VmTdQzovaL_2d0edeESfQLvKGyF-OnxEKvwKsFdKLkdgKU4j3mtXW7I9d_XmMYzQLXywUcyqU-rSUCkhzOIuEqs3zJZwNRlU-sehHAi8wNhCR8iYwj1dCuSdifMdokGTS4/s320/24232_1322743662614_1051513817_2396929_3968984_n.jpg" style="margin-top: 33px;" width="294" /><br /><br />If you’re like me, this time of year seems to be especially challenging trying to grab my four legged friends for feet washing after a long walk, before they hit any of the carpets! Best of intentions but not always possible! <br /><br />Thankfully with the quality of fibre going into carpets today, most times we can breath easily and know that it is just going to take some patience and a little effort to get them looking good as new again.<br /><br />First thing to remember is to relax …never rub a stained area aggressively (carpets are heat set, the friction you create by your efforts may get the stain out but leave the carpet ‘fuzzy’ afterwards), simply blot the area first to absorb as much as possible, working from the outside in, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and blot again. With most of today’s fibres, stains will not penetrate the actual yarn of the carpet, so all we are doing is blotting up the liquid that is surrounding the fibres, gently blot down into the carpet removing the spill from the carpet, rinsing the individual fibres free of their undesirable stain coating. <br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Most stains will remove this way, a small drop of laundry detergent (no bleach) in your water will help dissolve some more difficult stains or visit our website www.startilecentre.com for specific advice many common household stains. <br /><br />To address one of the most common questions, should your four legged friend have an accident, blot and rinse as above, then rinse with vinegar to neutralize the stain and deodorize the area without hurting your carpet. <br /><br />Gayle Baltjes-Chataway<br /></span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-80024767677548238392013-03-23T06:14:00.002-07:002013-03-23T06:33:05.565-07:00Can I paint my old ceramic tile?<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Contemporary Master Bathroom (from old 50s tiled bathroom), Old 1950s bathroom gutted and transformed to a modern bathroom., Old tub shower. , Bathrooms Design" id="imgTop4" src="http://picklemedia1.scrippsnetworks.com/pickle_media1/media/HGTV/100111/Photo_Video_6642675373884158389702_medium.JPG?0" style="cursor: pointer; height: 400.00001999999995px; width: 300px;" title="Contemporary Master Bathroom (from old 50s tiled bathroom)" />BEFORE</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tired of looking at your 1970's
bathroom? Or worse, your 1950's bathroom? Don’t have the budget or inclination to
remove all the old tile and start new? You have choices – Yes, you can actually
paint the tiles. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Though not a long term solution, at least it would get rid of
that Avocado Green you’ve grown so tired of! You will need to clean and lightly
sand the tile surface, apply a top quality primer, then roll on the paint. If the tiles are in a tub or shower area, and
your tiles are solidly installed (no signs of cracking tile or grout, mold or
mildew), you may be pleasantly surprised how inexpensive it is to simply tile
over the existing tile with new tile. If you are at all handy, new tiles can be
purchased for as little as $1.00 per square foot ($100.00 would buy all the
tiles you need to re-do a tub or shower area at this price). With a little
patience and the right tools, voila a whole new look that will last much longer
than paint, particularly in wet areas. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We are glad to do it for you - call me at the store to set up an estimate - 905-892-5756<br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img alt="Contemporary Master Bathroom (from old 50s tiled bathroom), Old 1950s bathroom gutted and transformed to a modern bathroom., New tub shower, granite shelf, and shower screen. Unfortunately, the space wasnt large enough for a separate tub and shower, and it was the only bathroom in the house with a tub, so we went with a tub shower combo with shower screen. , Bathrooms Design" id="imgTop5" src="http://picklemedia1.scrippsnetworks.com/pickle_media1/media/HGTV/100111/Photo_Video_78847546721252318988148_medium.JPG?0" style="cursor: pointer; height: 400.00001999999995px; width: 300px;" title="Contemporary Master Bathroom (from old 50s tiled bathroom)" />AFTER</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Gayle Baltjes-Chataway<br />
<br />
Star Tile Centre </span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-14003458837755922602013-03-18T08:59:00.001-07:002013-03-18T08:59:32.546-07:00Things to know when purchasing grout - <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Things to know when purchasing grout - <br /><img height="333" id="irc_mi" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4xE1Esdoqoou3AJ_NImxlG4ePUq2fPpE1Mp9-BqRSLJ7OuXuatcdY0iSoQJ5RJ57qj26aRs5UVZ200x2-1MD7_bvY0XA3B0Lyis7Jy5eB-8-0EJKvWXFg_qC8ycvS4EfLjpe1uI2BYtD/s400/Grout+Chip+Clip+2011.jpg" style="margin-top: 8px;" width="400" /><br /> According to Wikepedia, grout “is a construction material used to fill voids, and seal joints between tiles. Grout is generally composed of a mixture of water, cement, sand, often color tint, and sometimes fine gravel (if it is being used to fill the cores of cement blocks). It is applied as a thick emulsion and hardens over time, much like its close relative mortar.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Main varieties include: tiling grout (either urethane, cement-based, or epoxy), flooring grout, resin grout, non-shrink grout, structural grout, and thixotropic grout.<br />Structural grout is used in reinforced masonry to fill voids in masonry housing reinforcing steel, securing the steel in place and bonding it to the masonry. Non-shrink grout is used beneath metal bearing plates to ensure a consistent bearing surface between the plate and its substrate.<br />Tiling grout is used to fill the spaces between tiles or mosaics, and is often used to secure tile to its base.”<br /><br /> As most of us are really only concerned with choosing a grout colour that complements our tile and décor, how do we discern between the various products and pricing now available? </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />Essentially you need to ask yourself some questions to determine the best grout for your application. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1) Is stain resistant very important? This applies in particular to counters, behind cooktops, shower floors, exterior porches and small mosaics where we highly recommend you consider an epoxy grout. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2) Is it a darker colour that you prefer? Again for colour consistency, an epoxy grout is a better choice or newer grouts like Laticrete’s Permacolor which are more colour consistent than cement based grouts. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3) is it a heavy traffic area? The heavier the traffic area, the more we recommend choosing a higher performance grouting compound that will stand up to stains, vibrations, and perform well in the long term. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /> Sure grouts can be touched up over the years by using a grout rake to clean out any loose or discolored grout, then re-fill the joints with new grout, but who really wishes to be doing this? An additional $10.00 - $70.00 now for a better quality grouting material, will give you easy to clean, durable tile joints for years. Yes, the installation of an epoxy grout is best done by a tile professional, and it takes slightly longer to apply and clean up, but the end results of colour consistency are well worth it and will last far longer than traditional grouts. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /> To provide specific insight, one manufacturer, Laticrete makes three different types of grout which we call standard, premium, and epoxy, the same applies to the other major grout manufacturers Mapei and Flextile: <br /><br />A) Standard - Laticrete 1500 Sanded Grout is a premium, factory prepared grout designed to be mixed with water. It is formulated from a blend of high strength Portland cement, graded aggregates, polymers, and color-fast pigments and provides a grout joint that is dense, hard and durable. For grout joint widths of 1/16" (1.5 mm) up to 3/8" (9 mm). Designed for exterior and interior use - ideal for both heavy duty use outdoors and for long lasting beauty indoors. Available in a range of exciting colors that should satisfy even the most discriminating tastes.<br /><br />B) Premium - LATICRETE® PermaColor™ is a high performance, fast setting grout that provides a grout joint that is dense and hard. LATICRETE PermaColor Grout is color consistent. Mix only with water, ideal For Floors and Walls (Joint Widths of 1/16–1/2" [1.5 to 12 mm]). It inhibits Mold and Mildew with Microban®, has improved Stain Resistance For a Cement Based Grout, and is suitable for both interior and Exterior Applications, Residential and Commercial use.<br /><br />C) Epoxy - LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO Premium Grout is a patented, high performance epoxy grout which offers excellent color uniformity, durability, stain protection, and beautiful, full grout joints in an easy-to-use, non-sag formula. LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO Premium Grout is designed for use on ceramic tile, glass tile and stone applications, both residential and commercial. It can be used both interior and exterior on floors and walls. Ideal for re-grouting applications, LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO Premium Grout is perfect for swimming pools, fountains and other wet area applications. It has improved non-sag formula for walls and floors, Uniform color—no blotchiness or shading and is easy to maintain, cleanable to the original color. It inhibits the growth of stain-causing mold and mildew in the grout joints with Microban® antimicrobial product protection, is Ideal for installations at wide temperature ranges, is Tough, durable, and crack resistant and outperforms cement based grout. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Gayle Baltjes-Chataway<br />Star Tile Centre <br /></span></span>Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3710905817985808511.post-87175134847372778542013-03-08T09:58:00.002-08:002013-03-08T09:58:57.409-08:00Cleaning and Caring for your grout<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cleaning and Caring for your grout</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <img src="http://di1-4.shoppingshadow.com/images/pi/ab/b0/40/128485696-260x260-0-0_dupont+dupont+stonetech+professional+concentrate+r.jpg" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don’t let years of food and grease stains on your grout get you down! It can easily be cleaned and looking like new again. What’s happened is un-sealed grout has been penetrated by surface materials often leaving it an unsightly mess</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In most cases, old grout can be renewed with a good cleaning agent like Restore, from DuPont or a degreasing product, a stiff-bristle brush or commercial steam cleaner, and elbow grease. If using Restore, note that it is a concentrate, so depending on how dirty your grout is, you can dilute it to make it go farther. Usually areas getting the heaviest traffic – at entrances, in front of the stove or sink, will require the most concentrated use, and a milder mix can be used on the balance of the grout (and don’t forget the tiles themselves – it works great to get built-up dirt out of textured tile recesses as well!). Sponge on the Restore to the grout lines, leave for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to penetrate, then use a stiff brush to scrub the grout lines. Rinse well and do again if needed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Depending on condition of your grout, some spot re-grouting may be necessary — a process that involves digging out and replacing cracked or crumbled areas. If you don’t have any leftover grout, dig out a small piece and bring it into us so we can try to match the colour for you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In extreme cases, the only cure may be to re-grout or re-tile, but it is usually worth trying to clean the grout first. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are glad to do it for you - call me at the store to set up an estimate - 905-892-5756</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gayle Baltjes-Chataway</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Star Tile Centre </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Star Tile Centrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02136921316898710202noreply@blogger.com0