By Brian Quinn

BELVIDERE Shovels will be going into the ground Tuesday to get the Park-and-Ride facility at the Crossroads Center underway, Allegany County officials said Friday.

The groundbreaking will be at 1 p.m. at the Crossroads Center, 6087 State Route 19.

With a grant through the Federal Transit Administration, improvements will include reconstruction of the existing driveway and parking lot, a new driveway to allow improved traffic flow and the addition of about 60 parking spaces. The work will also include new, dark-sky-compliant, outdoor LED lighting, enhanced landscaping, stormwater management practices and a new bus-stop area.

Thanks to the dedication and leadership of an active steering committee, state agencies and our consultant, we were able to secure funding through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration for a parking facility and to receive long-term safety and significant infrastructure improvements, said Ardent Solutions Mobility Management Planner Larry Kaminski. As another example of economic development initiatives within Allegany County, this project not only serves to improve and enhance existing infrastructure, but will also be an asset and catalyst to encourage future community development activities and ultimately facilitate long-term economic growth.

The county Public Works Committee on Aug. 2 approved awarding a bid for the Park-and Ride project to Nova State Company, which submitted the low bid of $621,606.

At the committee meeting, committee member Judy Hopkins asked whether the project is on target for completion by the end of October.

They (Nova representatives) believe that we have established an aggressive schedule, but they believe its doable. Thats what theyre telling us, Superintendent of Public Works Guy James replied. I think we can extend it a little bit. We dont want to go too far behind.

The blacktop plants are really the critical thing. Once they close, the availability of material, thats the problem, he said. You can put topsoil down later on after the blacktop plants close if you want to, but thats the real critical element that needs to be done.

In response to a question, James said blacktop plants usually close around Thanksgiving, so the project should be OK time-wise.

James noted the Park and Ride project has already been approved and that Public Works Committee approval is all the bid needs. He said this will enable the project to move ahead.

Were looking forward to getting that project going and getting dirt turned black up there, James said.

Kaminski said, All that I can add is its under our budgeted amount that we had anticipated.

Committee member Karl Graves asked if the Department of Public Works was familiar with Nova State Company.

They actually worked for us before. They did a small project, James said. It was the retaining wall on the exit ramp going out from the back parking lot. They did the gutter system, the curb, the gutter and the retaining wall and then the black fencing thats along there. They did a good job. Theyve done a lot of municipal work, so theyre familiar with the procedures that have to be done.

Hopkins asked if the project being under budget means there will be leftover money in the grant.

This isnt the only component of that budget. This is just the construction portion of it, James said. There was the design that we already paid for and then we have construction inspection the people who are doing the inspection of the work thats going to be done. All in all, its going to be very close.

Ill tell you better in a little bit whether theres going to be a surplus, he said.

Continued here:
Park and Ride event slated for Tuesday - The Chronicle Express - Penn Yan Chronicle-Express (blog)

Architects show designs for new...

COLUMBIA, Mo. - A new middle school is Columbia should hold 700 students for classes, according to the architects who designed it.

PWArchitects showed off its work on a southwest middle school Monday night. Firm president Chris Davis said the school should hold 700 students for daily classes, but could fit 800 students in total.

CPS moved up the opening date of the middle school to 2020 as overcrowding continues to be an issue at its one middle school south of Stadium Boulevard. The district is targeting land on Sinclair Road for the new school.

The half of the building nearest the parking lot will feature the gym and performing arts center. Two stories of classrooms are further back, and staff will have the ability to close off that half after hours. Superintendent Peter Stiepleman said that allowed for a more accessible feel to the public, allowing easy access to the popular facilities, while also protecting the class space.

Davis said a "flex room" near the gym will serve as one of the building's two storm shelters. Columbia city rules require schools to have them. The school's classroom for students with physical and mental disabilities will also double as a storm shelter. Davis said that stops students who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices to get across the entire building in case of an emergency.

"Columbia Public Schools probably isn't too unique from other school districts," Davis told ABC 17 News. "They started taking into account electronic cameras and surveillance, as well as lockdowns, and control of the door systems, so we incorporate those things, too."

Matt Pitzer, a Columbia City Council member, said he enjoyed the simplicity of the school's design. The three main hallways make it seem easy to navigate, and allow for safer navigation of the school, Pitzer said. The city councilman said that he still wanted to accelerate improvements to Sinclair Road ahead of the school's scheduled opening, including sidewalks and bicycle lanes.

"We don't want everybody in their cars, we want to get people out of their cars and be able to bike and walk, and right now, Sinclair is basically an unimproved road," Pitzer said.

Read more from the original source:
Architects show designs for new Columbia middle school - ABC17News.com

The old warehouse building at 211 Main St. in North Tonawanda was not built to last.

According to Joy Kuebler, one of two women with plans to bring new life to the building, the structure was made with cheap materials when it was built nearly 90 years ago. The fact that its still standing, she said, is unusual.

Were looking at a substantial reconstruction, but we want to maintain the historic integrity, Kuebler said, adding that theyd like to create a 21st century building that lasts another 100 years.

Kuebler, owner of Joy Kuebler Landscape Architect, P.C., has teamed up with Kelley Culp-Burton, owner of KCB Architecture, P.C., to convert the building into new office spaces for their growing businesses. They plan to move their businesses to the space and expect to have 10,000 square feet left over which can be rented out to other tenants. They plan to use movable walls to allow the space to be reconfigured, as needed, over time.

Under the name Enterprise Lumber and Silo, the two have applied for assistance through the Niagara County Industrial Development Agency. Theyve been approved by the NCIDA for a 10-year tax abatement, a sales tax abatement and a mortgage recording tax abatement to help bring the $3.1 million project to fruition.

Thats just one piece of a handful of things we need to get in place to make this project happen, Culp-Burton said.

She added that theres also the possibility of additional funding from the state Department of Environmental Conservation if they get approved to be part of the brownfield program. Theyve also received a $300,000 Restore New York grant and Culp-Burton said there are programs through both National Grid and National Fuel that help with the restoration of abandoned buildings. She said theyve also received support from state Sen. Robert Ortt, R-North Tonawanda, and state Assemblyman Robin Schimminger, D-Kenmore.

The project is expected to transfer 11 jobs to the new facility, with Kuebler saying they expect to add four to five employees each over the next 10 years. The project summary issued by the NCIDA says they plan to create seven new jobs.

As with any building as old as 211 Main St., there is substantial repair work to be done before theyre ready to open for business. The big issue is the roof, which needs to be replaced, along with the windows and the exterior walls of the structure. Whats still in good shape, Culp-Burton said, is the timber frame. She said thats part of the historical feel to the building that theyd like to preserve.

In addition to enhancing their businesses and providing space for new businesses, they also plan to utilize the space in ways that benefit the community. They plan to use a portion of the building to create a space that can be rented out for community events and theyre also working with students in North Tonawanda High Schools Academy of Engineering and Architecture, who will use their project as a learning opportunity.

The project is expected to enter the construction phase during the spring of 2018 and, if all goes according to plan, open for business by late 2018 or early 2019.

Originally posted here:
NT architects seek to revive old warehouse - Niagara Gazette

Kelly Thompson has plans for downtown Sun Prairie. The owner of Kontext Architects LLC is leasing the empty space at 240 E. Main St. and renovating the upper level, which sat vacant for years.

We just gutted everything and cleared it all out, and weve got some big ideas for the entire building, Thompson said, adding that his team will relocate its offices to an updated 1,500-square-foot second-story space next March.

An additional 1,000 square feet of space on the second level remains available for lease.

Meanwhile, a new front facade is in the works that will restore the corner location, adjacent to Cannery Wine & Spirits, to its original early-1900s storefront appearance.

Inventure Realty Group will occupy the Main Street level, and Thompson envisions the basement, which still retains woodwork and fabric from a bygone era, as the perfect home for a commercial wine cellar and tasting room.

Thompson, a Sun Prairie resident who began Kontext Architects in 2008 at 425 W. Main St., relocated his firm to downtown Madison on East Dayton Street after Kontext merged with Architecture Network in 2014.

But he wanted to return to downtown Sun Prairie, where he sees a vibrant scene evolving thanks in large part to new housing developments in the area.

You have people walking all over the place, he said. And it gets more exciting at night and during the weekend. This downtown is considerably more accessible than downtown Madison, and for Kontext being in downtown Sun Prairie is all about presence and name recognition.

For now, though, Thompson and his staff are temporarily operating out of 1110 N. Bristol St., a small space formerly occupied by The Ammo Box and sharing a building with Georges Chicken & Fish and Good Spirits liquor store.

We were sort of homeless, said Thompson, whose downtown Madison lease expired in June.

He was able to sign a short-term lease while renovations take place at the East Main Street building.

Proximity to the Highway 151 corridor, which provides easy access to the Fox Valley where several Kontext clients are located as well as to and from other regions, also attracted Thompson. Its very common for us to go where our clients are, and this is a very practical move for us, he said, explaining that Sun Prairies location makes traveling to visit clients much more convenient for his team.

Kontext offers pre-design and schematic design services, creates design development and construction documents, and provides construction administration services. The firm built much of its business on designing public buildings for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, as well as multiple school districts and various municipal entities in Wisconsin and Illinois. The firm also has been involved in several design studies for Sun Prairie-based projects.

Will the move to Sun Prairie help Kontext garner more local work? It remains to be seen how much of an advantage that will be, Thompson said, but hes excited about returning to where he started his business although he doesnt regret the Architecture Network merger and the subsequent relocation to the heart of Madison.

Architecture Network was owned and operated by Arlen Kay a renowned architect whose last name rhymes with eye and who helped restore buildings that now house Quiveys Grove restaurant and the Great Dane Downtown.

He also offered Thompson, who attended the University of Southern Illinois-Carbondale, his first crack at working in Wisconsins architectural design market back in 1997.

Following the 2014 merger, Architecture Network was folded into the Kontext Architects name, as Thompson eventually took charge of all operations.

The partnership has helped Thompson expand Kontexts capabilities to include more design work in the private sector, especially with multifamily residential projects.

Kay, despite being of retirement age, remains a part-time Kontext employee and brings in new work for the firm.

Today, three years on from the merger and only months away from beginning a new chapter in the firms history, Thompson claims Kontexts greatest strength is its ability to connect with clients.

We want to build sustained, trusting relationships, he says. We want to know about their kids or if theyre in a bowling league. We sincerely are interested in them as people. That definitely fosters trust, and we are very intentional about it.

KONTEXT ARCHITECTS LLC

1110 N. Bristol St.

Phone: 608-825-0094

Web:

http://www.kontextarchitects.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kontextarchitects

Hours: Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

See more here:
Kontext Architects planning move to downtown Sun Prairie - hngnews.com

The fruitful partnership between Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) and office developer SOHO China will soon bring another remarkable structure to the countrys design landscape. Their latest collaboration, Leeza SOHO, is set to top out at its full height of 679 feet next month. While that may seem diminutive compared with other towers under construction around the world, the Beijing property is breaking records in another way. The mixed-use building will contain the worlds largest central atrium, an expansive 623 feet high, which will be open to the public.

A look at the ongoing construction within Leeza SOHO.

Leeza SOHO is the fourth building ZHA has designed for SOHO China, and the latest images reveal that the architectural firm has created something that will rival its previous collaborations, which total 15 million square feet and include Galaxy SOHO, Sky SOHO, and Wangjing SOHO. The dizzying photos offer a look at the progress of the 1.86-million-square-foot building and a glimpse at the construction process, which is being done with an eye toward sustainability and LEED Gold certification.

Once Leeza SOHO is completed, Beijing will have yet another skyscraper designed by one of the leading firms in the world.

Set to be completed in 2018, the building is composed of two sides twisting around the atrium and connected by a series of sky bridges. The clever design allows the halves to shade the central space, while the double-insulated glazing maintains the views as well as comfortable interior temperatures. The atrium also connects with the subway station below the site, meaning that future occupants could have one of the worlds most beautiful commutes.

See more here:
Zaha Hadid Architects Reveal New Images of the World's Tallest Atrium in Beijing - Architectural Digest

located along the popular sigmund freud path in the alpine woods of bolzano, messnerarchitectschurch in stella is an appreciated spiritual spacefor people from far and wide. the conversion and renovation of the building, dating back to the fifties, is aimed at reevaluating the existing structure and making it more appealing to visitors.the fleeting glimpse inside the chapel encouragesvisitors to enter the place of worship.

the prevailing genius loci, latin for the spirit of the place, is strikingly expressed through the catchphrasechurch in the woodsall images davide perbellini

the largerectangular opening behind the presbytery bathes the interior in light and underlines the pursuit of linking the interiorto the exterior. the prevailing genius loci, latin for the spirit of the place, is strikingly expressed throughmessnerarchitectscatchphrase church in the woods. the framed view is characterized by a continuously changing landscape throughoutthe year. inside the church, the previously existing height difference between presbytery and nave is reduced and replaced by a ramp with an incised canyon. the configuration as a ramp dissolves the separation of the space, and creates the impression of a shaped landscape. the dark incisions in the wooden ceiling reflect the joints in the floor.

meditation room

afreestanding panel of translucent glass opposite to the front door works as a protective and informative shield.the stained-glass windows originate from artist peter fellin. the figurative arched windows with the pictures of saint stephen and saint notburga were moved from the east to the west faade where they brighten the entrance. since its renovation, the abstract and precious stained-glass windows receive more attention and appreciation. the altar is located on the central axis of the presbytery, while the ambo and the priests chair are situated in front of the main liturgical object. solid monoliths of a local variety of gneissic rock rest on the translucent glass bases. the light breaks through the fragile bases and makes the heavy masses hover above ground.

the view onto presbytery

the weightlessness of the structurestrongly expresses the aspiration for the divine and the closeness to heaven.the new staircase starts with a loop, hovers above the registry and leads to the attic floor along the east faade. the previously unused attic floor was restructured and recovered as a place for meditation, silence and retreat. the attic consists ofan entrance area with a cloakroom, a restroom, a storage room and a spacious event room. the entire timber-framed supporting structure was demolished and substituted by a three-hinged arch. the subsequently unsupported tent-like space was improved in its physical properties by insulating the wood-shingled roof.

view towardsthe rear end of the chapel

the brickwork of the western gable was demolished to further provide the meditation space with daylight.astair shielded by a wall element leads down to the meditation space wrapped in its lower part in carpet like a nest and dissolving in its upper part in wooden boarding. the entire surface of the gable wall is closed by a glass faade which opens up the view to the piazza. astepped terrace enlarges the meditation space with an attractive openspace, connecting the innerto the outer space both visually and mentally.ultimately, only two architectural interventions determine the conversion of the church in the wood: on one hand, it is the breakthrough of the sacred space to the landscape, on the other hand it is the opening of the gable to the piazza.

attic floor details

the registry

altar base detail

stairway to attic floor

west faade at dawn

east faade at dawn

details of the eastern faade

outer view into the presbytery

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynn chaya | designboom

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messner architects situates its newly renovated saint joseph chapel in the alpine woods - Designboom

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Three Parts:Gaining ExperienceStarting an Interior Decoration BusinessBecoming an Interior DesignerCommunity Q&A

If you have a love of decorating and a knack for arranging furniture and choosing dcor and color, a career as an interior decorator may be perfect for you. To become a "decorator" you dont need an extensive education or a fancy degree, just a good eye and a passion for the job. However, if you are interested in interior design, you will need to take specialized courses and gain the proper licensing from the state, depending on which state you are in.

Part 1

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Practice interior decorating. Volunteer to help friends and family with decorating projects. Look for volunteer projects with local organizations. Look for service organizations like Habitat for Humanity and local shelters. Even decorating spaces for special events is good experience.

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Get materials. Find sources for materials and supplies. Without a license, you may not be entitled to designer discounts. However, you can begin to negotiate with suppliers if you are buying in bulk. You can also learn to find inexpensive sources for materials like overstock stores and thrift shops.

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What are the basic qualifications needed to become an interior decorator?

wikiHow Contributor

Nothing really, just as long as you have passion for it, an eye for decorating, and continue to learn different decorating styles and trends. You could consider taking a short course to get a certificate if you really want some kind of proof that you're qualified.

What materials are needed for interior decoration/interior design?

wikiHow Contributor

Measuring tools, flooring samples, wall covering samples, a computer software for showing rooms and different ideas of dcor. A well strong knowledge of what is popular, what is coming back in style, what is not, a great caring attitude, and great business ethics are also important.

What if I am not good at drawing, but I love designing and I want to be an interior designer some day? Should I pursue this course in life, or should I find another course that is more suited to my skills?

wikiHow Contributor

You can get through it with a lot of effort and don't slack one bit. Commit yourself myself to do your 110%. In this way, you'll become a successful decorate with a job you very much love. The thing you need to understand is that if you love your career, and you love what you do and what it will help you become, then those hard steps arent so hard anymore.You learn how to draw eventually, because talent is indeed just 1 percent of the mix and effort is the last ninety nine percent. If you love it and work hard, youll be fine.

I am currently in school and want to be an interior decorator. What subjects should I take?

wikiHow Contributor

Graphic Design, Photography, Interior Design, Furniture History (Purpose, Mood Creators, Manufacturing), Home Structural Design, Introduction to Art: History, Color Education, Medium uses, Marketing (if you want to be self employed), and Interpersonal Relations. Brand Popularity and History is another good choice.

Is math important when it comes to interior design?

wikiHow Contributor

I'm an Interior Design teacher. I'm always surprised about the difficulties my students face in understanding drawing in scale. This is math we all study in primary school (at 7/8 years old) and it is fundamental to design in the right proportions, otherwise you can't deal with the concept of space. So the answer is: yes, BASIC math is important.

Is interior designer a good occupation?

wikiHow Contributor

You need to network with a lot of people in this business. I think you will find that if you are prepared, educated, hard-working, and have a natural talent for this, you will do well.

How much money can I make?

wikiHow Contributor

Quite a decent amount, but it really depends on your location, how good your work is, and how much experience you have.

How much is an interior designer's salary?

wikiHow Contributor

It depends on your area. Stop in a home interior design stores in your city and see if they will help answer your questions.

What is the difference in between an interior designer and interior decorator?

wikiHow Contributor

An interior designer focuses on decorations and modifications to the structure itself: floors, windows, electrical systems, etc. It's a much more inclusive job that goes beyond just decorating the house.

How can I start practicing interior decorating as a kid?

wikiHow Contributor

When I was a kid I would use the family desktop computer. I would draw rooms and decorate them using the paint program on it. If you would like an even better option, there is a program in the Microsoft app store called "Planner - 5D Home and Interior Design," it allows you to switch from 2D to 3D easily and it is well worth it to spend the $10-$20 for the full version. You will have access to all materials and be able to save them, as well as take snapshots too. If you don't have access to a computer, good old fashioned graph paper, and a ruler work. Make sure you do well in school as well, as it will help you when looking for a college.

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Original post:
How to Become an Interior Decorator (with Pictures) - wikiHow

One of the best ways to bring warmth into your kitchen is to install wood floors. This idea is especially appropriate in small kitchens where white or light-colored cabinets are chosen to visually expand the space. Wood floors provide a beautiful, natural contrast without visually paring down the space. Regardless of which material you choose solid wood flooring or engineered flooring the flooring surface is typically installed prior to the installation of the base cabinets. Doing so is particularly effective in cases where furniture-type base cabinets are selected. Because these cabinets stand on legs, they allow a view of the wood floor beneath them. The resulting look is much like that of a formal dining room.

Wood flooring has made a major comeback as builders and homeowners look to increase the charm, value and comfort in new and remodeled homes. Another reason for woods return is the increasing prevalence of open floor plans, in which kitchens and family rooms blend together. Wood floors offer a warm, seamless look for such designs.

PRO TIP: Whether applied on-site or in the factory, penetrating scalers like polyurethane help ensure that wood floors in the kitchen will resist spills.

For more information about your flooring options, visit the showroom at Quality Home Center our name says it all! We are located at 1249 Rt. 9 S. in Cape May Court House. For more information, call (609) 465-5029 or visit http://www.qualityhomectr.com.

See the rest here:
A Warm and Cozy Kitchen - Cape May County Herald

Photo: istockphoto.com

One of the oldest flooring materials is still among the most desirable. Whether your style is classic, contemporary, or eclectic, a hardwood surface can complement your dcor and add value to your home. Durable, natural, and renewable, hardwood flooring is available in a variety of colors and grain patterns to suit your individual design and lifestyle needs.

Five hardwood species (oak, walnut, hickory, maple, and cherry) are among the most common choices for residential flooring and each has its own properties. But before you select a species, you should understand the pros and cons of both types of hardwood flooringsolid and engineeredand consider finishing options, too. Read on for everything you need to know so youll wind up with the finest flooring for you!

Traditional hardwood floors feature solid wood boards while engineered hardwood flooring offers the look of the real thing with increased application options at a slightly lower cost.

Solid hardwood flooring boards are milled from a single piece of wood, while engineered hardwood boards feature a multi-layer base topped with a layer of real hardwood. Prefinished solid red oak flooring runs about $5 per sq. ft., while engineered red oak flooring runs $1 to $2 less (the thicker the hardwood layer, the higher the cost). Price aside, consider the benefits and drawbacks of both.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Solid hardwood flooring

can be refinished many times, and so has the potential to last for decades.is designed for installation over a wood subfloor, with each board positioned and individually nailed to the subfloor. Since it requires nailing, its not suitable for installation on a concrete substrate.is not recommended for below-grade installations, such as basements. The increased humidity and residual moisture below grade can lead solid hardwood to warp.can develop cupping if exposed to high humidity. Because each board is nailed on the edges, if the wood swells, the boards press on one another and they can push upward slightly at the seams, creating a cupped depression along the center of the board.can develop gaps if the wood contracts. If the moisture level in the wood was higher when it was installed, gaps between the seams can occur as the wood dries and shrinks. To prevent gaps, allow boards to acclimate to the room climate for at least two weeks before installation.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring

is made of multiple thin layers of compressed wood, resin, and polymers, and then topped with a layer of real hardwood.can be installed over a host of different flooring, including wood, tile, or linoleum as long as the existing floor is level, and can even be installed concrete. Instead of being nailed to the subfloor, engineered flooring planks are fitted and snapped together via grooves on the sides of the planks. A floating floor, its not physically attached to the floor beneath.can often be installed in basements. The resins and polymers in engineered flooring withstand higher humidity. Check the individual brands, however, because resistance to moisture can vary.can sometimes be refinished. A few manufacturers that use a thicker layer of surface hardwood claim that their product can be refinished once or twice. The majority of engineered hardwood flooring will not hold up to refinishing.will not cup or cause gaps between seams. An engineered floor is installed with an expansion space around its perimeter. Its less likely to swell or contract, but even if it does, the expansion space will accommodate the movement and the floor will remain flat and level.comes prefinished; once its installed, nothing more is required.

Until recently, solid hardwood flooring was installed unfinished, and then the installer would apply stain and a durable finish coat to protect the surface. Today, hardwood flooring is also available in a prefinished product, with stain and topcoat already in place.

Unfinished hardwood flooring

is the smoothest flooring option. Because its installed and then sanded, theres no board-height discrepancy.allows for custom colors. If you want a unique shade, install unfinished flooring and have the stain custom-mixed at a paint store.is more time-consuming to install. Since the floor is finished in phasesinstallation, sanding, staining, finishingit can take three or more days to complete.entails mess and potentially toxic fumes. Sanding an entire floor is a dusty prospect, and some stain and finish products produce disagreeable fumes that require ventilation during application.means lower material costs. On average, unfinished hardwood flooring runs about $1 per sq. ft. less than prefinished. For example, unfinished Red Oak flooring runs about $4 per sq. ft. while prefinished Red Oak runs about $5 per sq. ft.but higher installation costs. The extra labor required to stain and finish the floor makes unfinished hardwood more expensive when professionally installed. Depending on labor costs in your area, you may end up paying more for a flooring pro to install and finish the floor than you would to have a prefinished floor installed. A professional installer may stand behind defects in workmanship during the application and finishing process, but if you install the floor yourself, you wont have any recourse if the finish doesnt hold up to normal wear and tear.

Prefinished hardwood flooring

is available in a few dozen colors, but cannot be customized in your shade of choice.has higher initial material costs but lower installation costs than unfinished types of hardwood flooring. Since no staining and finishing are necessary, a professionally installed prefinished hardwood floor is often less expensive than a professionally installed unfinished hardwood floor. In the long run, youll probably pay less for a prefinished hardwood floor.has no exposure to dust or toxic fumes.comes with manufacturer warranties that often guarantee against defects in stain and finish coat.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Now that you know the score on floors, you can begin to choose your species, based on color tones, wood grain patterns, and overall durability. The Janka Hardness Scale, named for Gabriel Janka, an Austrian researcher who developed the scale in 1906, is todays industry standard for determining wood hardness. The higher the rating number, the harder the woodand the more durable your floor.

Oak: This popular hardwood features two distinct types, both highly desirable for flooring options.

Red Oak: The most common hardwood flooring choice available today, it has a Janka rating of 1290 and is well suited for most flooring needs. Its warm tones range in color from creamy pink and golden red to rusty brown. It features graceful swirled grain patterns throughout and has a tendency to vary slightly in color and grain pattern from one board to the next. Red oak complements diverse dcor styles, including classic, rustic, contemporary, and country. White Oak: Chosen for its fine grain patterns and cool hues, white oak is harder than red oak, coming in at 1360 on the Janka scalemaking it a good choice for high traffic areas. White oak has gray undertones and no hint of red. Its grain and color vary only slightly, producing an overall floor effect of smooth elegance, which is suitable for many design styles.

Cherry: Prized for its warm brown hues and smooth grain pattern, cherry is slightly softer than some hardwoods, ranking 950 on the Janka scaleso best for lower-traffic spots, such as bedrooms and formal dining rooms. Cherry has a tendency to darken slightly over time, especially if exposed to bright sunlight. For optimal visual impact, consider installing wide flooring planksup to 8 inchesto showcase this hardwoods beautiful grain pattern.

Walnut: Its deep, rich, chocolate tones and large straight grain patterns make walnut a top choice for drama and sophistication. With a Janka rating of 1010, Walnut is suitable for medium-to-light traffic, but may show wear in high-traffic areas after a few years. Color variations from board to board are slight, giving walnut floors a smooth, consistent look.

Hickory: With a Janka rating of 1820, hickory is very durable, ideal for high-traffic zonesin fact, it was once a top choice for school gymnasium floors. Hickory features mocha-tones, ranging from creamy beige with a hint of red to warm brown with dark brown streaks. With large knots and color that can vary substantially from board to board, hickory is well suited to rustic and country style.

Maple: Another highly durable choice, maple ranks 1450 on the Janka scale and is suitable for most rooms. Its a fairly light-colored wood, with hues that include light cream, beige, and tan, and it often features a slight reddish tint. Maple has a fine grain pattern, with occasional dark streaks and specks that add visual interest to the wood. This hardwood complements many styles, including contemporary, transitional, and eclectic.

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New Floors? The Types of Hardwood Flooring Every Homeowner Should Consider - BobVila.com

If youre thinking of replacing the flooring in your home, then youre probably faced with a difficult decision.

Deciding whether your budget will cover laminate, wood or carpeting is only one decision. Homeowners must also choose the best flooring for durability, style and color.

For Tony Cruse, owner-operator of The Tile Company in Beaver Lake, the answer is simple: a quality tile that will endure many years to come.

Wood floors can get scratched and damaged from water. Carpet is easy to ruin and vinyl flooring tears and can also buckle, Cruse explained. Tile does add value to your home and really lasts forever. Its the grout that goes bad. Its important to get a stain-proof, crack-resistant grout, especially if youre using a light colored tile.

Cruse has been in the tiling business for 25 years. He is especially expert at installing custom-designed tile showers and flooring.

Decorating with tile is especially popular not only for interior flooring but outdoor kitchens, lounge areas, patios or decks. Tile is durable, but you need to choose a type that will endure the different elements. For outdoor use, I recommend thaw-proof porcelain tile, Cruse said.

Ceramic tile frost resistance or thaw-proof porcelain tile has the ability to withstand freeze/thaw conditions during the winter months with minimal effect. The frost resistance of ceramic tile is dependent on the tiles porosity and water absorption levels.

Porcelain, granite, slate, marble, travertine, limestone and quartzite are good options, depending on the climate in which a person is having it installed.

Whether its an interior or exterior installation Cruse said gray is one of the most popular color choices. Gray is big and so is white. Patterns are especially popular and herringbone patterns are very big, Cruse explained.

Cruse stressed the importance of choosing quality tile when doing a project. Dont go cheap on tile. Its usually uneven and doesnt look as nice when laid out. Fads are hard to replace, he said.

Although many people opt to install tile themselves, if they do not have an expertise in laying tile they need to hire a professional.

Its not as easy as it looks. Many people do it on their own, but dont understand the importance of keeping it level. Unlevel tile causes the grout to crack. Also using the proper grouting makes a big difference, Cruse said.

Poured showers can be especially challenging. They are hard work and, if not done right, can cause leaking later, which means it has to be torn out. Do not hire based on price. Paying cheap usually means the work you end up with will cost you more in the end when it has to be redone.

Cruse may be contacted through The Tile Company by emailing Crusetile@yahoo.com or calling 402.690.7153.

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Local expert explains how to get the best tiling results - Fremont Tribune