FLOORS WINDOWS WALLS & CEILINGS. Floors are often the most expensive or most permanent backgrounds...
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Transcript of FLOORS WINDOWS WALLS & CEILINGS. Floors are often the most expensive or most permanent backgrounds...
FLOORS WINDOWS
WALLS & CEILINGS
Floors are often the most expensive or most permanent
backgrounds of the room, so plan your interior decoration around
these first.
Pros: Carpet adds warmth and comfort.
Comfortable underfoot. Adds warmth and texture to the décor. Least expensive of all flooring options. Stain-fighting fibers improve practicality
for kitchen use.Cons:
Absorbs excess moisture. Some stains may be hard to remove.
Carpeting can be installed wall-to-wall, or may be an area rug that has finished edges and is not attached to the floor.
When choosing the carpet for your home it is as important to consider the
quality as it is the style and color. When judging the construction and durability of carpet it is important to
consider the type of fiber, the yarn twist and the pile density. (while cotton is
used for small throw rugs, it is generally not durable enough for carpets)
Nylon – Nylon is a synthetic fiber and is known for it’s strength and abrasion resistance. Over
half of all carpets sold in America are nylon.
Wool – This is an expensive, resilient fiber shorn from sheep. It is a natural fiber
and is very easy to clean. It is soft and warm, but prone
to high static.
Olefin (Polypropylene) – This is an inexpensive very
abrasive-resistance fiber but has less resiliency and limited in color range.
Polyester – This is a fiber that is naturally stain resistant
because it has no dye sites, however, it is not as durable as nylon. Known for color clarity.
It is very soft.
Acrylic - Acrylic carpet fiber offers the appearance and
feel of wool without the cost. Acrylic carpet fiber
has a low static level and is moisture and mildew
resistant.
Twist refers to the number of times that the individual fibers are twisted per linear inch, and can be judged by looking at those fibers closely
and comparing. The tighter the twist the better the carpet
will retain its appearance. Twist
should be easy to see with tight and well-defined tufts rather than those that are
loose and flared open at the tips. Carpets that are “heat set” are best, as it gives the carpet
memory, stabilizes the yarn, and retains twist
the longest.
You can compare density by bending carpet samples as they would be bent over a stair tread. Then look into
the pile. The higher density carpet will show more pile
fiber and less of the backing material. A high density
carpet will make it difficult to feel the backing.
Dense carpet packs more fiber into the pile so that it
wears longer, resists crushing and matting better and retains its texture longer in heavy use. Dense carpet also helps resist stains and dirt by keeping them on the
surface of the pile where they're more easily cleaned
away.
Pile density refers to the amount of fiber used in the construction of the carpet and is a combination of how closely the fibers are tufted together and their pile height. Face weight, the numeric expression that refers to the number of ounces of the pile fiber in a square yard of carpet, is also a
good indication of the quality of a carpet.
Velvet Sometimes referred to as
a "plush", velvets are smooth finished carpets with a rich, velvety look. They are an extra dense, cut pile with a luxurious look and color.They are
most suited, although not exclusively, to formal areas such as living
rooms, and dining rooms.
Saxony Versatile beauty in cut pile.
Not as formal as velvets, but easier to live with. The degree to which each individual tuft is visible in the pile creates a wide range of subtly different appeals. This texture is often
called "trackless", and it is the most popular style in today's carpet market. It offers a solid color surface like a velvet, but
with a rougher finish that helps to minimize sweeper
marks and footprints.
Textured SaxonyThe most casual and rugged of
cut pile carpets. Tightly twisted yarns curl back on
themselves, creating a distinctive nubby, loose and shaggy, or pebbled texture
look. They might be referred to as a shag carpet; some with
very tight twist are called Freizé (pronounced "free-
zay”). The twist level provides durability, while the looser pile
provides comfort.
Berbers / SisalsThe visibility of each loop and the way light reflects
from the surface give level loop carpets a charming
appeal that blends well with any decor.
The looped construction offers exceptional durability, and a unique look. Many berbers are patterned, using high and low loops,
which can give an embossed look not available with most
other textures.
Cut And Loop These carpets are often
called "sculptured", because of the pattern formed in the
face of the carpet by the looped areas. Cut and loops provide a casual setting, and are usually found in family rooms and rec-rooms. In solid colors, their subtle shading creates a unique
style of multi-toned beauty. They are sometimes referred
to as “traceries”.
Bonded Urethane - Made by grinding flexible polyurethane foam into small particles and bonding them together with a chemical adhesive. The
quality is measured by the foam density, or weight of the material per cubic foot. Bonded cushion is commonly called "rebound“.
Prime Urethane - Manufactured in chemical mixing and reaction processes. The quality is measured by the foam density, or weight of the
material per cubic foot.
Sponge Rubber - There are two common variants of sponge rubber cushion: Flat sponge cushion generally offers a firm feel, while rippled sponge provides a softer feel. The quality of sponge rubber cushion is
measured by its weight in ounces per square yard.
Fiber - There are three common types of fiber cushion, natural fiber (such as hair or jute), synthetic fiber (made of nylon, polypropylene etc.), and
resinated textile fiber (made of recycled textiles). The quality of fiber cushion is measured by its weight in ounces per square yard. Fiber
cushion is commonly called "felt“.
Installed under the carpet, this cushioning makes your carpet feel better by absorbing
foot traffic pressure for a softer walk. It improves insulation, increases the efficiency of vacuuming, reduces noise, and maximizes
durability.
Vinyl flooring (or resilient flooring) began as linoleum and has been a very popular choice over the years. In the last several
years, there have been huge improvements in durability and styling.
Pros: Relatively inexpensive.
Soft and quiet underfoot. Easy to clean and maintain
Durable (higher-quality grades). Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes.
Stain resistant. Damage relatively easy to
repairAvailable in tiles or planks or
rolls Cons:
May show wear after about five years (lower-quality grades) Cushioned vinyl may be cut easily by small rocks, etc.
Pros:
Hardwoods are the most durable, versatile, and resistant to wear. Comfortable underfoot.
Parquet floors are those installed in a pattern or 3D effect.
Appear warm and luxurious.
Cons: Must be sealed well and
maintained to resist spills, scratches, chemicals and wear.
Refinishing worn floors is difficult, requiring sanding, re-
staining, and refinishingFloors may expand or contract or finishes crack with variations in
temperature and humidity.
The type of wood and the stain offer a variety of wood grains
and colors.
Pros: Virtually stainproof and fade-
resistant. Easy to clean and maintain -- never
needs waxing. Economical, priced only slightly
higher than quality vinyl. Available in wood grains and patterns
that mimic tile, stone, and other materials
Forgiving of uneven base surfaces Resists indentations,
stains, heat, fading, and surface moisture.
Cons:Wood portion of flooring susceptible
to damage from excess moisture. May appear to be “fake” wood or stone.
The top layer includes a decorative paper layer with the design on it and coating
over it. Almost all laminates are installed as floating floors, meaning that the
laminate planks or tiles are attached to each other, but not to the sub-floor.
MANY COUNTERTOP MATERIALS ARE ALSO LAMINATES
Pros:Ceramic tile gives you
unlimited patternpossibilities.
Durable and easy to maintain Many shapes, sizes, textures,
and colors Glazed tiles are impervious to
moisture and stains Cons:
Relatively expensive, especially if new subflooring
is needed Requires monthly cleaning
with an oil-base detergent to resist stains (unglazed tiles)
Relatively noisy, cold, and hard underfoot
May show surface wear in high-traffic areas (glazed tiles) Chips easily if hard items are
dropped on it
Pros:Stone floors are elegant and
durable. The hardest stones (granite and
marble) are most durable.Easy to clean if sealed.
Comes in polished or honed (matte) or textured surfaces.
Cons:Expensive
Requires frequent resealing. Needs regular waxing and
polishing to maintain sheen. Can be highly reactive to acidic
solutions such as vinegar or orange juice, so use caution in where you put it.
Hard to stand or walk on for long periods.
Sandstone, limestone (travertine), marble, slate, granite, and the man-made stones terrazo and
terra-cotta are suitable for floors.
Pros:
Cork tiles are inexpensive, soft, warm, and quiet
underfoot. Non-
allergenic. Unique.
Cons: They
do have limited durability. They are susceptible to water
damage and gouging. Comes in
very few color and style choices.
Originates from a layer of tree bark, found in greatest quantities
on a cork oak tree that grows near the Mediterranean Sea
Pros: Rubber tiles are durable and hard-
wearing. Come in a range of patterns and colors to complement
contemporary kitchen styles or home gyms.
Often used commercially. Provides cushion for your step, slip resistance,
and sound absorption.
Cons: They require
periodic polishing to maintain their sheen.
Susceptible to stains, cuts,
and gouges. Some textures present cleaning challenges.
Naturally derived from a rubber tree, but synthetically is a
petroleum product.
Pros: Concrete is
extremely durable and easy to clean.
Comes in the standard gray and
colors.
Cons: Will look worn
and dull if not sealed and waxed. No sound absorption. Cold and hard to
walk on.
A solution made with water, acid and inorganic salts reacts with minerals already present in the
concrete to create the color effects. It can be applied to both
interiors and exteriors. The results are a mottled, variegated, marble-
like look.
Once the floor covering has been decided on, plan the wall coverings.
Suppose you are a prospective buyer, and the current owners have already
moved out. They have left empty rooms. Do the floors and walls go together without benefit of other
furnishings?
Drywall compound can be used to apply textures to ceilings or walls. They can be
sprayed, brushed, or spread with a trowel to create a variety of effects.
They add interest, provide some acoustical advantages, and hide minor imperfections. They may be difficult to
paint, and are difficult to remove.
Popcorn
Knock Down
StompOrange Peel
Painting is probably the most common wall covering because it is: fairly temporary, least
expensive, and least labor intensive.
Stenciling is using a pattern to transfer a design onto the wall
drawing or painting through the cutout areas of the design
template. Faux finishing “fakes” expensive
surfaces such as marble, by using sponges, combs, etc.
Before painting, walls must be prepared. They must be washed and cracks or nail holes filled. A primer is a
sealant that makes surfaces non-porous,
keeps out humidity, and may cover stains.
There are two main types of paint…
Solvent-based Paint May be oil or alkyd (synthetic
resin-based Sometimes called “enamel paint” Provides a durable and washable surface Brushes must be cleaned in a solvent such as
mineral spirits
Latex Paint Is water-based and quick-drying.
Environmentally safe. Quick water cleanup of brushes.
May not adhere to some surfaces. Not as durable as
solvent-based.Paints are available in various finishes: gloss (easiest to clean), semi-gloss, satin or eggshell, flat (dull, but most formal looking), and textured (adds interest
but difficult to clean or remove).
Decorative papers have been used to cover walls since the
16th century in Europe.
Though wallpaper is an easy and inexpensive way to add color, texture, and style to a
room, wallpaper is somewhat vulnerable to damage because of the
nature of the material and method of application.
Walls must be carefully prepared before applying
paper. Some paper needs to be pasted; most is pre-
pasted and just needs water.
Strippable paper means it can be removed without
having to score, steam, or scrape it off.
Consider the elements and principles of design carefully when choosing
wallpaper patterns.
Foil papers can make small rooms appear larger. Heavily embossed or flocked
papers with raised surfaces can create a formal effect. Vinyl and coated papers are
washable, so make cleaning easier.
Chair rails and wainscoting were originally added to plaster walls to protect them from damage to chairs. Today, there are primarily for decoration, applied to
the lower 1/3 of the wall.
Crown moldings are a wide trim board attached at the top of the wall next to the ceiling. Whether ornate or simple, they
add a “finished” or elegant touch.
Baseboard, window, and door moldings hide breaks between
surfaces and prevent damage to wall areas and keep dirt out of
cracks. They provide a finishing touch.
Solid wood paneling adds a warmth and richness to a room. It is attractive but costly. Cherry, mahogany, oak, pine, and walnut are
popular woods for paneling.Manufactured
wood paneling has a wood veneer
(thin overlay) top over a backing material, and
laminated plastic paneling is printed
in wood grain or other patterns. Both are more
economical and finished to protect them from stains and moisture, but
are less attractive.
A ceramic tile is a mixture of clays which is shaped and fired at high temperatures. The hard slab that
results from this process can be glazed or decorated or remain unglazed.
Advantages of glazed tiles: unlimited
color range and superior stain resistance.
Advantages of unglazed tiles are: wear resistance and added slip resistance as
compared to glazed ceramic tile.
The grout or adhesive filler between the tiles may present a cleaning challenge after time, or may crumble and allow water to
seep under the tile.
Wall tiles are not usually as durable as ceramic floor tiles.
Fabrics can be applied to walls to give unique textures, colors, and
patterns. They can be attached with glue, tacks, or double-faced tapes.
Fabrics can be repeated on windows upholstery, or accessories.
Grasscloth, burlap, or even carpeting have been popular on walls. The
fabric needs to be thick enough to prevent glue from showing through. It must also be resistant to stains,
fading, mildew, and shrinking. Cleaning can be a challenge.
Mirrors can be used to cover an entire wall or
smaller area. They make a room look larger.
Large mirrors or mirror tiles can be used.
Distortion-free glass should be used in large
mirrors.
They are expensive, but give a dramatic effect.
Make sure the view reflected is appropriate.
Mirrors can be clear, smoked, or patterned.
Maintenance is easy, but needs to be done
frequently.
Windows are the least permanent of the three backgrounds, although not
necessarily the least expensive or permanent. Homeowners may even
remove them when they move out. The floors, walls, and windows should all “go together” without the benefit of
other furnishings in the room.
Bay window: A composite of three or more windows, usually made up
of a large center unit and two flanking units at 30°, 45° or 90°
angles to the wall.
Bow window: A composite of
four or more window units in a radial or bow
formation.
Curtains should be hung to the stool/sill, to the apron, halfway
between the apron and the floor, to the floor, or puddled on the floor for
a very romantic look.
Curtains are usually unlined fabric or lace. They are hung or shirred (gathered) onto a rod, and offer a variety in colors, patterns,
and textures. They are considered informal.Curtains may be sheer (transparent), semi-sheer (diffuse light and view), or
opaque. Sheer curtains are sometimes used as an under-curtain, behind
draperies.
Café Curtains Usually hung on rings that
slide along a rod. They cover only the lower half of the
window.Scarf treatments are softly draped and free flowing.
Austrian Curtain Panel has shirred
pouf design
Tie Back Curtains are drawn back to the side and
held with a sash or cord.
Priscilla Curtains are tie back curtains,
edged with ruffles.
Long curtain “panels” with tab
tops
Short window “tiers”, often
hung on the top and bottom or as shown here with
a valance.Rod-pocket curtains have a
casing and are shirred onto a rod; should start out being 2 times the rod width. 3 times the width for sheer curtains.
A Valance is a top window treatment that can stand alone or be mounted over curtains or draperies.
Swag at the center with Cascades down the side Scarf valance
Blouson or balloon valance, sometimes stuffed with tissue paper for fullness
Shaped Valance
Tailored Valance with a Jabot (center ruffle or
drape) Cornice Valance
Draperies are traditionally a more formal window treatment. They are pinch-pleated and hung from a transverse rod that allows them to be opened and closed by pulling on a cord.
They are often lined or made of a heavier fabric.
Pleated and Cellular Shades (two pieces of
fabric with air space between)
Roman Shades raise in folds
Roller Shade (least expensive)
Balloon Shade
Woven Wood Shades
Shades can be used alone or in combination with other
window treatments. They were designed to filter or block the
sun and cold air.
Wood Blinds
Vertical Blinds
Vinyl Blinds
Blinds are made of a series of evenly spaced slats that can
opened and closed. They provide privacy and control over sunlight allowed into the room. Blinds are more difficult to clean than some
other window treatments.
Shutters control privacy, the degree of sunlight in the room,
and even temperature.
Shutters have crosswise slats called louvers, which vary in
width. Some use a fabric insert instead of louvers. They
can be painted or stained.
FLOORS WINDOWS
WALLS & CEILINGS