Dee Dee Taylor Eustace From Saturday's Globe and Mail Published Saturday, May. 26, 2012 12:01AM EDT

The question

I have always wanted a heated floor in my bathroom, but Im not sure what is involved in the installation. Is an elaborate rewiring job required or can an electrician tap into existing wiring? Are there restrictions on the kinds of flooring we can use? And how expensive is the job likely to be?

The answer

A heated floor is very welcome on a chilly morning or evening. And as more people have begun installing them, the costs have come down. For a typical five-foot- by-eight-foot bathroom, the materials and installation cost approximately $1,300. An electrical pad is placed below the flooring and should be on a separate circuit. Have this installed by a certified electrician to avoid any DIY problems. You can use a timer to switch the heater on and off so that it runs only when you need it.

For the flooring, any tile or stone is suitable, but wood can be tricky because it expands and contracts with temperature changes, creating gaps where you could lose your valuables. The only way around this is to use pre-engineered boards, which keep movement at a minimum.

Follow architect and interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace on Twitter: @ddtaylordd. Have a design dilemma? E-mail style@globeandmail.com.

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Is installing a heated floor in my bathroom hard?

CHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire -05/24/12)- With years of experience in the industry, UK Flooring Direct has risen as one of the most trusted flooring distributors in the UK. It boasts a diverse range of products available at competitive prices and for those thinking of updating the look in their home, the team at UKFD offers technical advice to rely on in the Advice Centre onsite at UKFlooringDirect.co.uk.

Choosing a new floor can be an arduous task for homeowners looking for a certain look. With so many styles and materials to choose from, UKFD customers can become overwhelmed with the sheer amount of choice and thus, the team are at hand, providing handy tips on the best options for a customers' home.

Solid wood, engineered wood and laminate wood flooring products can be found online. No matter which a customer chooses, it is important to ensure that the correct method is undertaken so that flooring is installed and maintained properly.

Homeowners must pay particular attention to installing solid wood flooring. Solid wood is beautiful in appearance but it can be susceptible to shrinking and expansion which is why it is essential to lay an underlay. UKFD provides homeowners with all they need to know on laying solid wood and an underlay and are always at hand via phone, email or online chat to answer any questions. Click here to browse the full range of solid wood flooring products on offer.

The installation guides have proven particularly popular to customers. They provide step-by-step instructions to help ensure that what may seem like a daunting task is made simple. Customers who follow the advice given by the experts at UKFD have found their floor to be every bit as good as they imagined.

To find out more about the wide range of flooring products available at UKFD and to learn more about installation and maintenance, simply visit the site at UKFlooringDirect.co.uk.

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UK Flooring Direct Customers Rely on Expert Advice From Advice Centre

The Biggs-Gridley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary held their General Meeting at their annual Spring Luncheon Tuesday with the installation of officers. A donation of $2,000 was presented to Chief Financial Officer Wade Sturgeon for the renovation of Hovlid Skilled Nursing which includes new flooring, window treatments and curtains in the resident's rooms. The day room will also have new flooring installed. Three resident rooms have been completed with nine more scheduled to be done. Past President Joyce Spence passed the gavel to President Pat Scheyer preceding the luncheon served by the hospital's dietary staff. Members were presented with volunteer bags as a token of appreciation from the hospital. The installation of officers was held with Martha Wright, Mary Vaughn, Lis Lewis, Joyce Elliott, Sis Hogeboom, Joyce Spence, Sharon Sannar, Winnie Grof and Bernie Kossow joining Scheyer for her year as President. BGMH Director of Facilities/Projects Don Pederson gave an update on current projects of the hospital, including Phase III of the renovation at the Donald Sullivan Medical Specialty Center in the Physical Therapy Department. When this work begins, the department will be moved temporarily to the hospital's Chapel on the east side. For the full story pick up a 3/23/12 edition of The Gridley Herald. Don't miss a story and call to subscribe. 846-3661

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Auxiliary Spring Luncheon held

California State Universitys Northridge campus has opened a new Student Recreation Center boasting a sleek, ultra-modern exterior, a 40-foot indoor rock-climbing wall, two outdoor pools and five areas with state-of-the-art athletic flooring made by Mondo, the global leader in the track and field, indoor sport and contract flooring markets. CSUNs 138,000 square foot facility opened in January and features Mondo floors for three fitness zones, an indoor track and the Multi Activity Court.

NORTHRIDGE, Calif. (PRWEB) March 22, 2012

When choosing flooring for the SRC, CSUN officials evaluated several competing products and they visited recreation centers at several other colleges and universities. We looked at their flooring, asked them how they scheduled and used their facilities, and talked to them about different flooring materials, said Jason Wang, CSUN university student union associate executive director. And Mondo kept coming out on top. It really was not a difficult decision.

CSUN chose Mondo Advance flooring for the MatArena Multi Activity Court, which is used for basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer and other activities; Mondos Super X Performance running track surface for the SRCs 1/8-mile indoor track; and two Mondo products for the SRCs three fitness zonesthe Bryan Green Matador Training Zone and the Total Training Zone both feature Sport Impact flooring, and the Top Level Training Zone has Sportflex M.

--Mondo Advance is recognized as the industrys most durable and highest-performing sports flooring surface for gymnasiums and multipurpose facilities. It is long lasting, with life expectancy of more than 20 years, and it is 100 percent recyclable.

--Super X Performance has been the worlds top track for more than 30 years and was the track of eight Olympic Games through 2004. It provides maximum energy absorption and return for superior comfort and safety.

--Sport Impact is Mondos premium weight- and skate-resistant rubber flooring. It protects against heavy impact and is antibacterial and antimicrobial throughout.

--Sportflex M, Mondos indoor-outdoor multipurpose rubber flooring, withstands static and rolling loads, such as bleachers, tables and chairs. It is stain resistant and does not require any coatings or special maintenance.

The SRC serves a large student populationenrollment is nearly 36,000so Wang said durability and ease of maintenance were key features for the venues flooring, and the products have lived up to expectations. Mondo is an industry leader in the ease of maintenance, durability and performance of its flooring surfaces, he said. The Mondo flooring has been a joyits easy to clean, super easy to maintain, and its performance is really good, so the people who use it are excited about how it plays.

Wang also said that it was a cinch for the university to find Mondo surfaces that matched the schools official colors and the SRCs color palette.

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Cal State University, Northridge opens state-of-the-art Student Recreation Center with 5 areas featuring Mondo flooring

AURORA, Ill., March 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --DIY enthusiasts now have a new online tool to support the successful installation of tile and stone. The TEC product selector, a new web-based and mobile app, allows homeowners to quickly receive product suggestions for TEC tile setting materials to get their project off to the right start. This one-of-a kind tool allows the homeowner to input details about their tile project, and the app generates a customized shopping list containing the TEC tile setting products needed for the unique project, helpful installation tips and a listing of other tools that may be needed to complete the installation. Compatible with most mobile devices or PC's, the TEC product selector starts by asking the user basic questions about their tile project. The DIYer simply enters the requested information about the job, such as what they plan to tile, what surface material they are working with, the dimensions of the space, the type of tile they are using and the desired grout width.

Based on that information, the TEC product selector immediately provides a detailed shopping list with suggested TEC brand tile setting materials required for the job, as well as a list of helpful tools and tips to support a quality tile installation. The user can then take that list to their local Lowe's home improvement store, and dive right into their DIY tile installation.

"We developed the TEC product selector to take the intimidation factor out of tile setting and help homeowners approach their DIY projects with more confidence and ease," said Lauren Fontela, Senior Market Manager for the retail channel. "Many people are unsure where to start when it comes to tiling, but having a tailored list of suggested products and quantities required, as well as recommended tools, for their specific job helps pave the way to completing their installation."

To download the new TEC product selector app, visit http://www.tecskillset.com/product-selector. For more information about the TEC line of tile setting products, including new TEC Skill Set product line and ready-to-use TEC Invision flooring products as well as how-to guides with step-by-step instructions for laying tile, check out http://www.tecskillset.com and http://www.tecinvision.com.

About H.B. Fuller Construction Products Inc.H.B. Fuller Construction Products (a subsidiary of H.B. Fuller Company) is a leading provider of technologically advanced solutions to the commercial, industrial and residential construction industry. Headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, the company's recognized and trusted brands - TEC, CHAPCO, Grout Boost, Foster, AIM, TEC Skill Set, Invision and others are available through an extensive network of distributors and dealers, as well as home improvement retailers. For more information, visit http://www.hbfuller-cp.com.

CONTACT: Emily Towey 312-946-6143

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New DIY App Instills Confidence in Tile Installations

Construction projects are currently in progress in the Webster City school district. Future projects have been planned and outlined for the summer months.

High school

Terrazzo flooring: Superintendent Mike Sherwood said that the terrazzo flooring is almost complete in the complex addition. It has been laid, poured, ground, sealed and waxed.

Heating and cooling system: Continued work is being done on the system, it has to be finished before the gym floor can be installed. Sherwood said that it should hopefully be finished in the next couple weeks.

Gym floor prep has been completed. The concrete must have a certain variance, and only three or four areas of the floor needed to be ground and filled.

Gym floor installation will start in late March. Sherwood said it will take between 6 and 8 weeks to complete - that includes laying the floor, staining and painting it.

Bleachers are due to arrive in mid-May. Installation will take 4 to 6 weeks, finishing in approximately mid-June.

Tile installation is mostly complete in the bathrooms. The main bathrooms located near the main west entrance have been completed and ceilings are in the process of being installed. Tile work on the bathrooms by the auditorium is nearly completed. Tile work in the connecting hallways by the old locker rooms that connect the new addition is finished.

Ceiling installation in the showers is currently taking place in the locker rooms. The ceilings are hard not drop ceilings.

Work on the parking lots by the high school office, south and main west entrance connecting to Bank Street will start soon. The design for the circle drive near the auditorium entrance has also been approved by the city.

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Construction continues at WC schools

Nationwide Flooring Program Highlights Riverstone's Focus on Exemplary Service, Premium Pricing, and Streamlined Operations

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) March 05, 2012

"In the multifamily industry, flooring products including carpeting, vinyl, hardwood, tile, and stone play a major role in determining property value and operational efficiency," stated David Denslow, Riverstone's senior vice president of national maintenance and purchasing. "Shaw's consistent production of high-quality flooring materials reflects the importance Riverstone places on property performance, curb appeal, and client and resident satisfaction."

Riverstone's new flooring affiliation brings many benefits to its clients. By committing to an exclusive partnership with Shaw, Riverstone was able to negotiate industry-leading prices for its properties on carpet and hard flooring products, helping to significantly reduce overall expenses. In addition, Shaw is committed to sourcing sustainable products that reduce waste and preserve resources, complementing Riverstone's desire to incorporate environmental stewardship into its property operations wherever possible.

In conjunction with its exclusive agreement with Shaw, Riverstone has selected two national flooring installers to participate in the overall program: Criterion Brock and the flooring division of Sherwin Williams. By working with a select group of thoroughly vetted professionals, Riverstone guarantees increased efficiency in communication between Shaw and the installers, paving the way for enhanced customer service and higher installation quality.

For MarySusan Wanich, chief operating officer at Riverstone, the company's partnerships with a renowned flooring manufacturer and dedicated installation experts underscore the core of its service philosophy.

"Our business relationships with Shaw, Criterion Brock, and Sherwin Williams are predicated on our shared belief that high-caliber materials are essential in creating unequaled living experiences for residents and exemplary value for clients," declared Wanich. "We are energized at the prospect of partnering with these companies, all of which share our commitment to improving asset integrity and growth."

About Riverstone Residential Group

Riverstone Residential Group, one of the largest third-party multifamily apartment management companies in the United States, is focused exclusively on the delivery of unparalleled property management as well as resident and ancillary services. Riverstone's core service groups include accounting, affordable housing, compliance and property audits, information technology, risk management, human resources, marketing and education, purchasing, and regional maintenance. Ancillary service groups include utility management services, resident screening and receivables management services, client and resident insurance, telecom services, and financial advisory services. The company manages a portfolio of multifamily assets valued at more than $15 billion for leading institutions, pension funds, developers and other major owners. Located in metropolitan markets across the nation, the more than 680 managed apartment properties include high-rise, mid-rise, and garden-style communities in conventional, affordable and receivership assets. The company is headquartered in Dallas, TX. For additional information, visit http://www.RiverstoneRes.com or e-mail ClientServices(at)RiverstoneRes(dot)com.

Susan Morrow smorrow@morrowpr.com 214-632-2711 Email Information

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Riverstone Residential Group Announces Exclusive Partnership with Shaw Floors

STODDARD, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, a 47-year old luxury brand that manufactures wood flooring with luxurious finishes, hand sculpted designs and thoughtful personal touches, today announced the launch of the Carlisle Master Craftsman(CMC) training program designed to provide professional floor installers with access to comprehensive training resources on how to install wide plank flooring to satisfy the most discerning clientele.

This exclusive program will provide Carlisle installers with access to online training videos on a variety of topics including Carlisles philosophy, the key to greater profits and the delivery and installation processes. A full training platform will test installers knowledge on everything from Understanding Wood Grains and Homeowners Finish Choices to Delivery and Acclimation to Understanding Job Site Conditions. After completing the training, installers will have the opportunity to become one of Carlisles Certified Master Craftsman.

We are very excited about this partnership program, said Chris Sy, National Sales Director at Carlisle Wide Plank Floors. The CMC program will make it easier for our customers to find a truly outstanding craftsman for their floor, while providing our trusted installers with comprehensive training resources.

He adds, The goal of the program is to provide the best service to homeowners and installers, making every project run smoother, and accomplishing the ultimate goala stunning work of art on their floor.

To learn more about the CMC Program, visit the Carlisle Master Craftsman site.

ABOUT CARLISLE WIDE PLANK FLOORS

Carlisle Wide Plank Floors is a modern luxury brand offering wood flooring with luxurious finishes, sculpted designs and thoughtful personal touches, along with responsive and unrivaled customer service. Carlisle is attracting new customers with its extensive portfolio of handcrafted luxury wood flooring, custom finishes and proprietary manufacturing process. In 2012, Carlisle Wide Plank Floors will be expanding to Asia and Europe. Carlisle supports the Forest Stewardship Council Principles and Criteria and works only with carefully selected timber growers who uphold the highest standards in sustainability.

Learn more about Carlisle Wide Plank Floors at http://www.wideplankflooring.com or call us at 1.800.595.9663 and follow us on Twitter @CarlisleFloor and on Facebook.com/Carlisle Wide Plank Floors.

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Carlisle Wide Plank Floors Launches the Carlisle Master Craftsman (CMC) Training Program

Kiefer Specialty Flooring, Inc. today announced it has been selected to provide all athletic surfacing to the new Student Life Center Sports Complex at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) March 05, 2012

The 168,000 square foot facilitys centerpiece is a new fieldhouse that includes a new 8-lane, 200-meter track. The university chose Mondotrack for use on the new track. Mondotrack is the same surface that will be used at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

"We extensively researched all available options for use in our new Student Life Center Sports Complex. At the end of the day nothing compared to Kiefer and Mondo. We are excited to open our new facility with what we believe is the finest and most reputable sports surface on the market today, says Mike McDowell, track and field coach at Olivet Nazarene University.

Brion Rittenberry, President and CEO at Kiefer Specialty Flooring added, Naturally, we are humbled by our selection to be involved in this magnificent facility. Our inclusion in the project confirms our status as a leader in the supply and installation of Mondo surfaces in the United States.

About Olivet Nazarene University

With roots back to 1907, Olivet Nazarene University is a liberal arts university offering 67 academic majors. The ONU Tigers compete in NAIA Division 1 athletics in a variety of sports including track and field, baseball, basketball, soccer, and tennis. Considered to be one of the premier Christian colleges in the United States, Olivet Nazarene University is a nationally accredited school that teaches over 4,600 students in a variety of fields of studies.

About Kiefer Specialty Flooring, Inc.

Founded in 1977 and based in Lindenhurst, IL, Kiefer is an award-winning, athletic surface design and installation company. Kiefers long list of sport surface installations include the University of Kentucky, Ohio State University, Notre Dame University, University of Nebraska, University of Illinois, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, Penn State University, and Purdue University. Kiefer offers design and installation for track and field, multi-purpose facilities, artificial turf, weight rooms, locker rooms, and fitness facilities.

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Olivet Nazarene University Chooses Kiefer Specialty Flooring for New Student Life Center Sports Complex

Keeping up with the latest trends in the world of floor coverings, Coswick Hardwood has launched a new collection of engineered oak flooring prefinished extra-durable aluminum oxide matte finish, Signature Oak Collection.

Mississauga, ON (PRWEB) March 01, 2012

The new flooring collection features seven designer colors, all of which satisfy consumer demand for natural, soft and earthly tones in hardwood flooring.

Signature Oak is one of the most creative Coswick flooring lines, stated Tatyana Zhigar, principal designer at Coswick Hardwood. This collection was inspired by the element of Water, and our designers relied on richness of color in order to capture and communicate the essence of this element in its various forms.

The new collection comes prefinished with lacquer CosNanoTech+, an innovative finishing technology that is distinguished by superb durability and high wear resistance. Through excellent adhesion to wood, CosNanoTech+ lacquer seals wood pores, creating a perfectly smooth and fully transparent surface.

All floors in the new collection have matte finish and very low surface sheen. The main benefit of matte finish is that it puts emphasis on richness of color and wood texture, as well as creates a very forgiving, easy-maintenance floor surface that disguises footprints and dust.

Signature Oak collection is manufactured as 3-layer floating engineered CosLoc 5G flooring. This innovative technology is rapidly gaining popularity, as CosLoc 5G flooring maintains superb dimensional stability even under elevated moisture conditions. In addition, installing CosLoc 5G click flooring is a simple DIY procedure, which significantly reduces installation costs. This type of flooring is recommended for a wide range of public and residential interiors, and can be used below, on, or above grade.

Adhesives used in all Coswick engineered floors are 100% formaldehyde free, while Coswick lacquer finishes contain no harmful VOC emissions, making it an environmentally friendly flooring solution.

Signature Oak flooring comes with a 25 year residential finish warranty, as well as lifetime structural warranty, which ensures that hardwood flooring will retain its structural integrity for a lifetime.

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Coswick Hardwood Launches New Signature Oak Flooring Collection