The Importance of Undercutting for Your Flooring Project

Lets Talk About Undercutting

Professional installers will already know what to do and will have the tools. Typically you would want to at least undercut your door casings and door jambs so you can tuck your flooring underneath, allowing enough room for proper expansion and contraction (I suggest allowing 1/4" each direction, so the goal would be a 1/2" or more to be cut out). Some installers may even undercut stone, metal, and/or mortar; all of which can prove to be quite diffucult for your average homeowner, do-it-yourselfer, and even a less experienced handiman.

Pictures of Undercutting for Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

As you can see in the above photo, the flooring will not fit under the door casing and jamb, many homeowners and/or handymen will cut around the casings and it will look sloppy, for a more professional look:

The Tools Needed for Undercutting for a Professional Flooring Installation

Standard tools used to undercut (cutting objects not made of wood may require different blades), some may have more versatility allowing the homeowner to not feel they bought a tool for just one job, while others are quite specialized.

For a homeowner installing their own floor, I would suggest an oscillating multi-tool because they can likely find other uses for it around their home, in fact, they may already have one if they have done other home projects themselves.

Here is an inexpensive oscillating tool that might be ideal for someone who wont use it often:

Genesis GMT15A Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool

Here is a more expensive oscillating tool that would be better if you planned on using it more often:

There are even inexpensive hand version of undercut saws. I grew up using these, they work pretty well, however if you have a lot of cutting to do it may take you a while:

Crain 336 Undercut Saw

This is a more specialized tool and it is more geared towards professionals who do a lot of undercutting, most professionals will carry the above saws with them as well, as some work better in certain situations than others:

Crain No. 835 Heavy-Duty Undercut Saw

Thanks guys for taking a look, if you guys have any questions about undercutting or installations in general please leave a comment or fill out our contact form, I love to talk flooring and emails are super easy to squeeze in. Also for more recommended tools, we have a few listed in this Installation 101 post.

Mohawk Hardwood Flooring

Mohawk Hardwood and Why You Should Have It

*Updated August 2022

Mohawk Hardwood Floors are Beautiful and Improve Your Home or Business.

Are you looking to renovate your beloved home? Or, perhaps you're looking to bring life to a newly purchased fixer-upper. Whatever your current situation is, if you're looking to buy new hardwood floors, then you need to consider Mohawk hardwood. 

Mohawk hardwood flooring is absolutely stunning and brings life into all homes ranging from old fixer-uppers to modern houses in need of a warm and aesthetically pleasing floor. But don't stop there, Mohawk hardwood is great not only for homes but for offices and businesses as well. For those looking to replace frail and worn down flooring with beautiful and durable hardwood continue reading.

Here is a break down of Mohawk hardwood flooring and why your home or business needs it. 

The Mohawk Difference: TecWood

Mohawk offers hardwood, also referred to as TecWood, in several different styles and colors. Because of this, we guarantee that there is something to match every person's style. But what makes Mohawk different from the rest?

Mohawk hardwood is specially engineered to be more durable, more stable, heavier, and flatter than other hardwoods. You'll find many types of woods in our Mohawk selection such as Maple, Hickory, Oak, and more. When it comes to the flooring industry, Mohawk hardwood is one of the most acknowledged brands. 

If you're looking to purchase hardwood for your home or business, then it's a no-brainer: choose Mohawk's TecWood. 

Mohawk Hardwood Options

There are so many hardwood options when it comes to Mohawk hardwood flooring. There are different colors, styles, and woods being used. This gives you a wide variety to choose from.

Listed below are just some of the options that you'll have. However, do keep in mind that this is not an exhausted list and is only used to show the wide variety available. 

Sonora Hickory

The Sonora Hickory flooring has an eased beveled edge, the shade is a bit darker and has smooth surface type that is sawn. The gloss is matte and the finish is Mohawk's TruFinish. This hardwood pairs perfectly with dark neutral colors on the walls. 

Java Birch

The Java Birch flooring has a lightly scraped surface. But don't let that fool you, these floors are bursting with character. In these, you'll notice mineral streaks, knots, and other unique characters. 

Elkhound Hickory

Another great candidate to show off amazing characteristics is the Elkhound Hickory flooring. On these floors, you'll find natural cracks, knots, and splits. The gray and white tones available for this flooring goes perfectly with modern designs.

Dovetail Oak

Dovetail Oak is a clean shade of hardwood flooring with a matte finish. And because the matte finish does not reflect much light, it's hard to see any unnatural scratches or damage caused by normal wear and tear. 

Why You Need Mohawk Hardwood Floors

With so many choices of hardwood floors, Mohawk TecWood makes the decision an easy one. Mohawk offers different collections that you can browse through and then select the right color, wood type, and style that best suits your home or business. And because Mohawk hardwood has Enhanced Engineered Core (EEC) technology, you won't have to worry about reliability. 

Here at Znet Flooring, we offer you a wide variety of Mohawk hardwood flooring options at an affordable price. Be sure to browse through our selection and feel free to contact us with any questions and orders.

Don't forget to protect your wood flooring by putting self adhesive Felt Pads on the bottom of your furniture. If you are considering a DIY installation of your new Mohawk wood floor, it could be help to browse our installation posts.

Is DIY Flooring For You?

Installing Your Own Floor: A Brief Guide

Your home in need of new floors? Are you considering doing it yourself? Before you do, check out this guide to the basics of DIY flooring.

Did you know that installing new flooring can increase the value of your home?

Have you been wanting to re-do your floors but want to keep costs to a minimum? Are you hesitant to hire a professional?

Consider doing it yourself!

DIY flooring is more affordable and easier than ever. Even a novice with no prior experience can transform his or her floor and give the home a whole new look.

Whether you are thinking of selling your home or are still enjoying it, updating your floors can give your home increased aesthetic value. Something as seemingly small as a change in flooring can make an old house look brand new.

If you are thinking about doing it yourself, but aren't sure what you're doing, keep reading for our top tips and strategies. 

Do Your Research

It's important to go into the process knowing that it won't be easy.

Even if you use simple materials, you will need to calculate carefully and cut precisely. If you've never done any home renovation projects yourself, flooring isn't exactly the best place to start.

However, it can be done right if you are up for a challenge and are willing to do some research. Doing it yourself could save you hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Watch plenty of how-to videos before you get started. 

The most DIY friendly flooring types would be floating floors with a locking system, we have options in this category for hardwood, laminate, and vinyl flooring. 

Buy the Flooring

Before you go crazy at the store, you need to determine what type of flooring you want to use.

Watch YouTube videos about installing that type of flooring. When you visit the flooring store to make your purchase, talk to the supplier to find out some important information.

Ask about the different warranties and ask for advice on acclimation, how to treat it, and how to install it. 

Obtain the Right Tools

One of the most important ways to ensure your DIY flooring job will turn out like the pros is to make sure you are using the right tools.

Once you've decided on a type of flooring, research the types of tools you will need to install it or ask your supplier.

You can usually rent heavy-duty power tools that you might need from a local hardware store, so you don't have to worry about the cost of purchasing them. However if you tend to do other projects around your house, purchasing the tools could have a better long term value.

Have Realistic Expectations

Know that each type of flooring has a different method of installation.

Make sure you know what you are doing before you get started and be realistic about your expectations. Be prepared and know that your project may take longer than you think.

YouTube videos will give you a great idea of how to install your floor, but if you are a first-time floor installer, things might take some time. Depending on the size of your area and the type of flooring you choose, it can take several days to install your floor. 

Need More Help with DIY Flooring?

If you have decided to give DIY flooring a try and aren't sure of your next steps, reach out to us, we can probably point you in the right direction.

Contact us today for help getting started.

Tips For Cleaning and Maintaining Your Laminate Floor

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is always a great choice for your home. You have the option to choose from several wood-inspired patterns, giving you an alternative to an actual hardwood floor. Laminate is also affordable enough to fit most budgets.

On top of the beauty and budget-friendly price, a laminate floor has a protective surface that makes it more resistant to scratches, the sun and wear and tear. However, you still need to put in the work to maintain its appearance and durability. Use the following tips to clean and maintain your laminate floor.

Choosing a Laminate Floor: 8 Key Reasons to Choose Shaw

The 8 Key Reasons to Choose Shaw Laminate Flooring

There can be several reasons to choose shaw laminate flooring. 

In 2017, the hardwood flooring market rose 2% to reach $3.49 billion. Laminate flooring enjoyed a 3.3% increase to reach $988 million. 

And there are good reasons why the laminate flooring industry is growing. They're eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and durable. 

But there are lots of different products to choose from which makes it difficult for homeowners to make a decision. We're big fans of Shaw laminate flooring and for good reasons. 

Keep reading to learn nine key reasons why when it comes to hardwood flooring, there's a definite Shaw advantage. 

1. Shaw Laminate Flooring Has a Great Reputation

Shaw Industries is based in the United States. They've enjoyed a great reputation because they're known for selling quality products. 

They're are a Fortune-500 company that employs over 22,000 people and enjoys over $6 billion in sales annually. 

Dedicated to Customer and Employees

Shaw is a company known for providing excellent flooring options to their customers. They're also dedicated to providing better futures for their employees.

In fact, in 2019, it was named by Forbes magazine as one of the best employers by state. And it was named one of the best places for diversity.

Shaw is Synonymous with Flooring

Shaw has been making floors in the US for quite a while, there is a solid chance your grandparents had Shaw carpet in their house. Back then they only made carpeting, they since expanded into most subcategories of flooring. Shaw knows flooring well and most people looking at flooring have heard of Shaw.

2. You Have Options with Shaw Laminate Flooring

Every household has different wants, needs, and budgets. That's why Shaw laminate flooring is difficult to beat. 

Color and Texture Varieties

Shaws offers many different laminate styles with hundreds of looks with different color and texture choices:

• Modern
• Contemporary
• Rustic
• Traditional
• Grays
• Browns
• Lights
• Darks
• Smooth
• Textured
• Handscraped
• Wirebrushed

Pet, and Kid-Friendly Options

For those with kids, pets, allergies or asthma, Shaw's laminate flooring is a perfect choice, as it is easy to maintain and difficult to damage.

3. Shaw Flooring Laminate is Budget-Friendly

Of all the different types of flooring, laminate flooring is the most budget-friendly. While porcelain tile flooring can cost you between $8 to $15, laminate flooring only costs between $3 to $7 per square foot. 

And thanks to the locking technologies, it's an easy and quick installation process. It's even possible to make it a DIY project, bring costs down even lower.  

Reduce Waste to Save Money

Factor in 5%-10% of waste when installing your laminate floors. However, the more you carefully plan and properly layout your materials, the easier it is to reduce a lot of excess garbage.  

Remember that square rooms will have less waste than rooms with curves, alcoves, closets, and corners. You can minimize waste in those areas by using small, cut pieces inside rarely seen areas. 

4. Flooring That's Durable and Long-Lasting

Shaw flooring laminate is a highly durable option for any area in your home that receives a high amount of traffic. It will last much longer than most other types of flooring in your home.

Most products come with warranties that last anywhere from 10-to-50 years. That helps provide you with the peace of mind that you're buying the right flooring product for your home. 

Resistant to Everyday Life

It's also more resistant to scratches and dents than most other types of flooring making it the perfect choice to install in kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, and even playrooms. 

It's so durable that it can endure up to 1,200 pounds of pressure per square inch. 

5. Eco-Friendly Products

For those searching for eco-friendly flooring options, Shaw laminate flooring is a great option. Laminate flooring is a composite material. 

Made from Post-Consumer Wood Products

It's made of wood chips, sawdust, and other post-consumer wood products. As a result, there's no need to harvest raw materials in order to make laminate boards. 

Also, since no natural resources are being used, there's no need to ship the material across the glove to reach your flooring supplier. That lowers the carbon footprint of laminate flooring as well. 

High-Quality Appearance

The flooring looks like traditional wood because a wood-grain image is applied over the top of the composite. Those who invest in higher quality laminate flooring will enjoy the elegant look of natural wood grain without the high cost associated with hardwood flooring. 

Less Chemicals

Laminate doesn't use glues or adhesives thanks to the interlocking system.

It's incredibly easy to clean, meaning you don't need as many harsh cleaning chemicals to keep your laminate floors looking shiny and new. And, unlike carpet, it won't trap in allergens. 

Reusable

When it comes time to make a change in your flooring, you can easily remove laminate flooring without damaging the boards. This enables you to reuse them in another room. 

6. It's Easy to Care for

It's incredibly easy to maintain and care for your flooring once it's been installed. The laminate makes it easy to clean up spills and messes made by pets or children.

You can usually just use a damp, clean cloth to easily wipe up any spills. However, carefully read cleaning instructions to ensure the quality of your floors for as long as possible, and never leave your laminate floor wet.

Easy to Clean Up Solids and Liquids

If you find wax or chewing gum on the floor, simply freeze it using an ice cube and then use a credit card or other type of soft plastic to remove it from the floor. 

Nail polish remover on a clean cloth will quickly remove liquids such as oil, paint, markers, lipstick, ink or tar from your floors. 

7. Repel Is Water and Moisture Resistant 

Even if you're single, accidents and spills happen. But if you have kids and/or pets, those accidents tend to happen more often. 

Thankfully, there is an option with laminate flooring that is water and moisture resistant. Repel Laminate from Shaw lets you have the extra time you may need in order to clean up those spills.

That means your beautiful flooring stays stunning. 

8. Easy Installation Process

Shaw does a great job of carefully explaining the installation process so have a better understanding of the process. This is helpful to you and whomever you choose to install your flooring.

You'll need to order your laminate flooring so it arrives at least 48 hours before you plan to have them installed. The flooring needs time to acclimate to the environment. 

For more information on laminate flooring installation, please check out this blog post. 

LocNPlace and Angle/Tap

With Shaw's laminate flooring, they come equipt with LocNPlace (2G), LocNPlace with clips (5G), or Angle/Tap locking systems. LocNPlace is actually the Valinge system which is well known and a favorite amongst installers. There's no curing time so you can walk on your new floors immediately after installation.

Talk to Us About Shaw Laminate Flooring

Shaw laminate flooring offers so many advantages from eco-friendly options to being remarkably budget-friendly. It's hard not to want to invest in this type of flooring for many rooms in your home.

But with so many styles and colors, finding exactly what you want and need can get overwhelming. We're here to help. Contact us and we'll help you find your perfect match. 

Looking for flooring that can handle pets, spills, and the chaos of daily life without losing its charm? You want something that looks great with your decor, offers plenty of style choices, and feels high-end in every room. Plus, it should be easy to install, safe, and last for years. Sounds impossible? Not with Mohawk's SolidTech. As a trusted name in flooring, Mohawk delivers premier waterproof options that tick all these boxes. Discover why so many families love Mohawk SolidTech.

Which Floor Is Right for You: Hardwood or Laminate

When choosing wood flooring, it often becomes a decision of hardwood vs. laminate. Both are good, but which is best for your needs?

Deciding which floor is best for you comes down to several factors. Do you love hardwood for its rugged authenticity? Or do you prefer laminate for its lower price, scratch resistance, and easier installation?

Whatever you choose, there is a good chance you're going to be walking on it for a long time. Whether it's your dream floor or you just got to get rid of your dirty carpet, compare the pros and cons before settling for what you need. Continue on to learn more...

Waterproof Flooring: What is it and How It Benefits Your Home

When your floors are waterproof they are also worry-proof. Learn what waterproof flooring is all about and how it can greatly enhance the your home or business.

If you’re on the market for flooring materials, what benefits are you looking to achieve? Most likely, you’re only looking for a stylish, comfortable, durable, and cost-friendly material. However, that’s not enough!

You should also consider the maintenance and functionality of the flooring product you buy. A floor undergoes the most wear and tear in a house. Choosing high-quality and easy-to-maintain materials can enhance its durability.

Currently, waterproof flooring is one of the most advanced floor options to consider. Read on to learn more...

Floor Installation 101: What You Need to Know About Installing Floors

Installing Floors: What You Should Know

Installing floors is a wonderful way to improve your living space. Follow this step-by-step guide to brand new beautiful floors you can do yourself.

Rising investment in residential construction has seen a high demand for flooring installers. In 2018, the flooring installers industry in the US grew by 5.8% reaching $26 billion. During the same period, the number of flooring installation companies grew by 1.8%.   

In the floor covering segment, revenue grew to $27,011 million in 2019. Experts forecast that the market will grow by 0.5% by 2023. When it comes to installing floors, you need to have skills, experience, and tools. 

Without them, it will be hard to avoid gaps, cracks, bumps, dips, and humps on your floors.  

In this post, we discuss some of what you need to know about installing floors. 

Learn the Basics About Flooring

In floor installation 101, the first step is to learn the basics. What types of floors are available in the market? What is the difference between laminate, hardwood, and vinyl flooring?    

What is the difference between engineered and solid hardwood flooring? Is laminate or hardwood better? Is a waterproof flooring needed? Which flooring is best for a basement? 

We understand that this means reading through lots of resources. By learning all these, it becomes easier for you to select the right flooring that fits your needs.   

When it comes to flooring types, you have hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile (natural stone or porcelain). Each flooring type has its own pros and cons. They also come in different styles, colors, and textures. 

Installing Floors – DIY vs Professional Contractor

There are over 1.688 billion websites on the internet. Of these, only 200 million are active. The internet is resourceful. You can find thousands of articles detailing how to install floors.  

For instance, you can find a guide on how to install laminate floors or how to install floors by yourself.   

These guides are useful and they can help you save money and install your new floor. You also have the option of hiring a professional contractor. As an expert, he is skilled and experienced.  

If you want to install your laminate, hardwood or vinyl plank flooring, it will help if you have the right tools. Will you be doing other DIY projects, or will this be your only one, how much you should invest in tools highly depends on how ofter you may use them:

• Miter saw or hand saw
• Tape measure
• Pencil  
• Square
• Table saw and/or Jig saw

To begin the floor installation, you must first prepare the room. This calls for the removal of furniture and hangings on the wall. For laminate flooring and some floating vinyl planks, you can install over old tile or stone as long as it is properly adhered and flat enough.   

You may have to make lots of calculations to come up with the perfect layout, measuring and cutting is part of the process. For hardwood floors, some may have to be sanded, although the vast majority are prefinished now days, mostly for superior durability.

When Installing most hardsurface flooring, you may need to undercut door casings, door jambs, and maybe some other fixed objects in order to properly run the flooring underneath for a professional look. We did make a blog post discussing this, click here to give it a read.

Protecting Yourself When Installing Floors

Like any other project, safety comes first. Before installing floors, protect your knees using knee pads. 

Don’t forget to put on your protective eye wear. 

Shopping for hardwood, vinyl, laminate or tile flooring? We at Znet Flooring can help. Contact us today! And don't forget to learn more about maintaining and protecting your new floor!

Cleaning and Maintaining Beautiful Wood Floors

Caring for Your Wood Floors Properly They'll Last a Lifetime.

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Wood Floors

Wood floors are not just a stylish addition to a home, they're an investment.

Wood is beautiful, natural, living material. You've taken time to make sure it's installed perfectly, to create the finish you want. And when it's properly cared for, it will actually only look better the longer it's down.

So how can you make sure that you treat your floor right?

Read on for our 3 top tips for cleaning your wood floors the right way.