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Reader Question: Safety of Carpet Padding February 23, 2010

Posted by Shannonbilby in : Carpet Cushion , add a comment

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Carpet cushion or padding is an item that is often overlooked. It is a very important factor in the installation of your carpet because good padding or cushion can actually make the carpet last longer. Below is a reader question and answer about the environmental friendliness or carpet padding.

Reader Question: Is carpet padding environmentally safe for my family and pets?

Answer: Most Carpet Cushions are made either from recycled materials or materials that are recyclable. Many cushions meet the Carpet and Rug Institutes Green Label for Indoor Air Quality, as they don’t emit hazardous levels of VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). Some carpet cushions contain antimicrobial treatments to fight against environmental elements such as odor-causing mold, mildew and bacteria.

It doesn’t matter what the carpet padding looks like because once it is installed, you will never see it again. How it performs is what’s important!

For maximum comfort, consider a thicker, plusher carpet cushion for a luxurious feel in bedrooms, dens and living rooms, where comfort is a priority. Higher weight or higher density products will help your carpet look newer longer. Many carpet cushions are available that combine the best of both worlds – durability and ultra-plush comfort.

When shopping for new carpet, feel free to come in and walk on some samples to see how the padding feels under your feet. We can then talk details of safety and performance.

Removing Chocolate Stains from Carpet February 12, 2010

Posted by Shannonbilby in : Care and Maintenance , add a comment

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Are you planning on giving chocolate this Valentines Day? Hoping to receive chocolate for Valentines? Either way, we’ve got you covered in the event that some of the chocolate ends up on your carpet. We hope you have a Happy Valentine’s Day and that you are the recipient of some very fine chocolate!

Easy tips  on how to remove chocolate stains:

Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.

Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (flourescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.

Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.

Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.

Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.

Not sure? Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. CRI – 1-800-882-8846.

Happy Valentines Day!

Featured Product: Castle and Cottage Oak Auburn by Kahrs February 6, 2010

Posted by Shannonbilby in : Featured Product, Hardwood / Laminate , add a comment

Kahrs Cottage Oak AuburnThe Castle & Cottage Collection by Kahrs was inspired by the color and interiors of southern Europe. The collection consists of pale to dark floors that have been gently brushed for added emotional effect and produced in unique design colors. Today’s feature is Oak Auburn. This product is so versatile, it could be used in most every design style ranging from eclectic to rustic. Of course, the image doesn’t nearly do justice to the texture and character of the wood so you might just have to stop by to see a sample.

Some features of the product:

This product is available in 6 stunning colors ranging from light shades to dark. Color available include: Carbonne, Cassis, Cognac, Espresso and Tarcot. You can see them all in our product catalog.

What Kahrs says about their company:

We have always worked with wood, and this is something that has developed into a 150-year love story. Today we are the world’s oldest wood floor manufacturer that is still in business.

As the world shrinks, and the wheel turns ever faster, roots become even more important. Our strong belief in craftsmanship that has distinguished us right from the start is deeply rooted.

This means that the high quality we stand for is represented in every single piece of wood that passes through our hands.

We hope you find this product as stunning as we do. It’s amazing to imagine the process of turning a tree into these beautiful floors.