Creaking floors are a frequent irritation in many homes but are normally not linked with serious building defects, they are usually caused by loose-fitting nails that grip the subfloor boards or plywood to the wood framing. These loose nails permit the subfloor to raise slightly. When someone steps on one of these loose and lifted spots, the nail slides down and up again with foot pressure, producing unnecessary squeaking sound.

The best way to resecure the subfloor to the framing and thereby eliminate this repetitious droning is to reinforce the wood joints with drywall screws. Regrettably, this involves the cost and trouble of having the carpets rolled back prior to fastening the floors, and then reinstalled after the corrective work is completed.

Some people have had success by drilling drywall screws through the carpet and padding, which can be done by driving the screws three quarters of the way down and then breaking off the heads. The problem with this method is that carpet fibers can wind around the screws, causing runs. Or the padding can wind around the screws, resulting in clumps. The best approach, as noted in the previous paragraph, is to have the work done the old fashioned way by a professional carpet layer.

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   This myth does not jive with reality. A study done by Dr. Mike Berry at the University of North Carolina where he took carpet, ceiling tiles, drywall, wall studs and all sorts of building materials found in construction and put them in a high humidity chamber with elevated temperatures, both necessary for mold to grow including a food source, and after three days everything in the chamber was covered in mold except for one thing; the carpet – there was no mold on the carpet.

  Why? Because carpet is a synthetic polymer which mold cannot use as a food source. If mold is found on a carpet there’s a problem; out of control moisture in the building and the building and carpet is dirty. Getting rid of the carpet accomplishes one thing – getting rid of the carpet, you have not solved the mold problem. Carpet that is kept clean and dry will absolutely not grow mold. If the carpet has mold on it you’d better start looking elsewhere to find the source of the big problem you have. Another myth dispelled by proven scientific fact.

   Remember the evidence never lies, it will always tell you what the problem is if you know how to interpret what its saying. The evidence will also always take you to the truth.

    Natural linoleum, often confused with PVC vinyl, is made of linseed oil, cork and wood flour, pine rosin, nontoxic pigments and has a natural jute backing. It comes in a wide variety of colors. From soft subtle beige tones to vibrant blues, reds and even hot pink. The color choices are endless.The majority of natural linoleum comes in a marbleized design. It should be installed by a certified linoleum installer. It can be glued directly to a concrete slab or a new plywood underlayment. Once installed no more waxing is required and a simple damp mop is all you need.

    This floor is warm and soft underfoot making it ideal for kitchens and baths. You can also create custom inlay designs or add one of their many coordinating borders. Natural linoleum is now available in a floating floor click system through Forbo. There are 18 colors to choose from and they come in a 1×3 plank and a 12 inch tile.

   Forbo natural linoleum has become our most popular kitchen floor. We receive many thank you calls from our clients that were not familiar with the product when they first came to our showroom. Our clients love the colors and warmth it creates and they love the fact that linoleum is so easy to care for.