Removing Cracked Grout – Reader Question August 2, 2010
Posted by Shannonbilby in : Ceramic/Porcelain, Reader Questions, Uncategorized , add a commentReader Question:
Whats the best way to remove grout and replace? We remodeled our shower, but due to foundation movement, the corners have cracked and now water seeps in. I am assuming i need to remove the old grout and redo. Anysuggestions or insight? – Daniel
Answer:
Grout replacement is one of the methods that can be used to correct minor moisture issues in a shower depending on the leak’s physical location within the shower itself. If there is grout cracking on the walls or in the vertical corners at a level of 4 foot or higher, a small hand sized grout saw can be used to carefully saw out the joints to remove the old grout. Thoroughly clean out the cavity with a shop-vac to remove any debris and reinstall grout where needed. On the other hand, when you have moisture seeping into adjacent rooms at levels lower than 4 foot high, this could be a sign of a much larger issue in the shower’s waterproofing system and should not be ignored. If this is the case, I suggest that an appointment is made with a professional to inspect and address for corrective measures. - Ernie Nogales, Installation Manager
Hardwood Flooring Maintenance – Reader Question January 19, 2010
Posted by Shannonbilby in : Care and Maintenance, Hardwood / Laminate, Reader Questions , 1 comment so far
Reader Question:
“I just moved into my new home with my family and before I start cleaning my new hardwood floors I wanted to see if you could clear up a debate between my mother and me. My mother tells me to clean my hardwood floors with Windex like she does (and has for 40 years) because that will help keep the shine longer. My floors are the newer type where they came already finished right out of the box. I plan to mop them with soap and water like the rest of my floors. Can you tell us which one of us is right? ”
Ashley from Yuma, AZ
Answer:
Ashley,
We are so happy that you asked us this question before you took matters into your own hands! Your mother maybe giving you advice based on the type of hardwood floors she has in her home. Hardwood floors have changed significantly in recent years and with those changes have come more advanced cleaning methods. First, here’s the answer followed by an explanation! You, especially should only clean your hardwood floors with a manufacturer approved cleaner.
Here are just a few of the reasons why:
- Using the wrong type of cleaner can void your warranty
- Cleaning with multiple products can leave a permanent film on your floors
- Your floors have a special protective coating that was carefully applied in the factory. Some chemicals can damage that finish making your floors more susceptible to damage.
- Mopping hardwood floors with soap and water can cause your wood to expand and contract and cause a variety of other unsightly issues (take a stack of paper and soak it with water – that will give you an idea of what water and wood do when they meet!)
Hardwood floors, especially pre-finished hardwood floors are designed to be very little maintenance for you. You should only have to use a liquid to clean your floors when you have a spill or stain. Using a terry cloth head mop with a small amount of cleaner should do the trick. You will also want to be sure that you keep dirt and sand off of your hardwood floors on a regular basis by having walk off mats at every door.
Hope this helps!
Your friends at Big Bob’s
Flooring for the Holidays – Reader Question November 6, 2009
Posted by Shannonbilby in : Reader Questions , add a comment
Question:
It’s already November and the whole family including in-laws wants to come to OUR house for Thanksgiving Dinner! I have been meaning to get new floors, but I hadn’t really had a reason as pressing as dinner for 18. Is it crazy for me to try to get new floors installed in my dining room and family room before the holiday? I don’t have time to do any of the work myself, but need my home to look great before my mother in law gets here. Can you help?
Samantha - Yuma, AZ
Answer:
Samantha, we understand your situation! Lucky for you we have tons of in-stock specials to choose from. Not only can we more than likely complete your project before your deadline, but possibly save you some money to buy a new outfit for dinner. Our in-stock items include products from every category and in multiple budget ranges. Since 1983 and to this day our philosophy is to provide a wide selection of in-stock carpet, vinyl, laminate, remnants and tile flooring so you will have plenty of choices to choose from. Due to the fact that we purchase truckloads rather than one piece at a time, the savings is passed on to you which means you get more and pay less.
The key is to not waste any more time. The last thing you want to do is cut it too close because that’s when Murphy’s Law happens! To get ready, you can browse our in-stock products on our website to see the choices we have to offer. You can even save the ones you like in your own personal workbook so that we can start working right away when you come into the store. If you need some help deciding on the right style for you or not sure what product is best for your lifestyle you can utilize the tools in our design resources section. If you are ready to start making some decisions, come into the store and let’s get started. We will discuss your project to be sure that all of the details of the project are in place for a timely installation. It’s important to discuss all of the details of the project so that there are no surprises.
We look forward to seeing you and hope to hear back about the success of your family dinner!
