Life Is Good When You’ve Got Tile That Looks Like Wood!

I know my father wants wood look tile, he just doesn’t know it yet. My dad constantly gripes about how he has a hardwood entrance to the house but that the rest of it is carpet. He says he’d much rather have hardwood throughout. He also gripes about the cost, and maintenance, and this, that and the other when it comes to the possibility of hardwood. So I’ve come to the conclusion that all he really just wants is the look of hardwood! Well, because I work at Builders Surplus I’ve let him in on the secret. He can have the look of hardwood throughout his home without all of the hassle!

Well, what exactly is this secret stuff?

The secret is Wood Look Tile! It’s made from porcelain or ceramic and can stand up to just about everything that natural hardwood can’t! Thanks to modern technology the detail that is put into the process of creating this style of tile is that it mirrors the look and feel of real hardwood so accurately that even experts are sometimes stumped.

How durable is this ‘wood look tile’?

Wood-look tile can stand up to just about anything that hardwood can and even some things that natural hardwood cannot. For instance, did you know you can put wood look tile in your bathroom and your basement (try that with natural hardwood. Blech.)! Tile doesn’t need to acclimate and it stands up to water much better than other types of flooring, so you’ll never have to worry about it warping or rotting. This stuff is also very easy to clean and maintain! Sure, a well maintained, a real hardwood floor can last you 100 years or more, but on that same note, a tile that is taken care of properly will last you the same timeframe if not longer!

However, porcelain is porous so you will want to clean any spills up quickly or you will run the risk of staining the surface of the tile.

What does it cost?

This is the question that everyone wants the answer to and, actually, it runs fairly comparable to natural hardwood. Some hardwood is less expensive, just like some hardwoods are more expensive than it’s tile doppelgänger. The price of real hardwood will depend on it’s finish and especially on the rarity of the wood being used, with tile you’re main expense is going to be brand and size of the tile.

Will I like the look of tile just as much as real hardwood?

I’m willing to bet that you will! You’ll hear others snicker that wood look tile doesn’t feel like real wood and that the grout that is sometimes used to place the tile ruins the illusion. Daltile wrote a short piece to dispel these myths about wood look tile, check it out if you’re having any doubts.
The other part of this question that isn’t stated is ‘will I like the color(s) offered?’ Again, this answer is yes. Like I said earlier, technology has come so far when creating the look of wood on tile that not only do they use multiple images of wood grain to make sure the pattern isn’t repeated over and over again on a noticeable level, they can make the wood look like just about any color or wood type that you can imagine. There are tiles that reflect a lighter, smooth wood look similar to pine and there are other tiles that have a dark color with a rough texture like distressed barn wood.

Shop around our own selection and you’ll be able to see exactly what I am talking about. We have many styles in stock, ready to take home, as well as other styles of wood look tile that we can custom order for your specific flooring renovation project!

At Builders Surplus, we’re a friendly renovation company that’s here to help you with all your home improvement needs. We’ve got two convenient locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Florence, Kentucky, so we’re never too far away to lend a hand to our friends in Cincinnati, Ohio. Our specialties include interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, and building materials – we’ve got everything you need to create the home of your dreams! Best of all, our interior design services and measurements are always completely free for our clients.

No matter what your budget is, we’ve got building materials that will work for you. From unfinished kitchen cabinets to top-of-the-line Wellborn cabinets, we’ve got something for everyone. And if you’re looking for installation services, we’ve got you covered there too. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you may have, and we’d love to set up a free design consultation with one of our talented interior designers. We’re passionate about sharing our knowledge with our clients and potential home renovators, which is why we regularly write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement on our website. So make sure to check back often for our latest article! We’re here to help you create the home of your dreams, so let’s get started today. Happy Renovation!

Written By: Kat Updated by Todd 2023

October 25, 2019

5 Renovation Mistakes You Cannot Afford To Make

Anyone who has watched HGTV has seen plenty of renovation mistakes. Any renovation is an undertaking–ask every contractor and every homeowner that has been part of a remodel. From the accidents that can occur to the ever-growing budget, taking on a reno project requires time, dedication, sweat, and patience. From our experts to you, we have come up with the list of five renovation mistakes you cannot afford to make!

Low-Balling the Budget

Surprises are going to happen. Sometimes they are good: like finding original hardwood floors underneath the carpet in pristine condition. Sometimes they are horrifying: like finding asbestos in your home’s walls. While installing backsplash, you might damage the wall and have to replace some of the drywall. Peeking inside the drywall, you could find electrical issues. Then, the next thing you know, you’re dealing with more than just installing backsplash. We suggest setting aside 15% of the total project cost (potentially more for older homes) for unexpected expenses. This is your safety net in the event that unforeseen issues occur. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t break the bank at the first sign of the unexpected.

Floor Drains: the Laundry Room Essential

This is one of the renovation mistakes that you may not consider. A laundry room drain is required by code in most areas, but some people still omit it. If there is ever a break in your washing machine hose, you’ll flood your house. A floor drain directs the water into your home’s main drain system. And please, do not try a DIY installation. This can turn into another one of our renovation mistakes. You will absolutely need a professional plumber, but again, you’ll have peace of mind, as flood insurance is not covered by most basic homeowner’s insurance plans.

Granite, Granite, Granite

Of course, it is popular, but granite isn’t the only option for the kitchen. Renovators could choose a different material for the countertops that can save tons of money in the kitchen! Our non-granite picks: butcher block, plate steel, or a nice laminate for those who don’t necessarily have the budget for premium marble or granite. Explore the options that will work best for your family to avoid regret down the road. Don’t break your budget trying to keep up with the Joneses.

Hidden Gems

Just because you don’t see it, doesn’t mean it isn’t useful. A bathroom membrane system (which goes under tile) prevents popping and cracking, and keeps water from getting into the substructure. Think about it: If you’re spending $15,000 on a bathroom, spend an extra $1,000 to ensure you’ll never have a mold problem. This is one of those renovation mistakes that could end up costing big bucks down the line.

Floored: Ultimate Renovation Mistakes

Most contractors typically buy 20% extra flooring since it is prone to cuts and breakage during installation. There’s no guarantee you’ll be able to find an exact match if you need to order more during a long remodeling project. Most retailers often let you return unopened boxes for a refund, so you shouldn’t get stuck with too much material. It’s also nice to have extra in case of damage down the road. If you suffer and water damage (especially in the kitchen) or a pet scratches deeply or has an accident that stains, you’ll be glad you did.

For more tips on avoiding costly remodeling mistakes, download our FREE Home Reno 101 Checklist and sign-up for our newsletter, which has the latest tips and tricks, design trends, special offers, and expert knowledge on renovations!

Builders Surplus is a full-service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: KH

October 18, 2019

Backsplash Ideas For Your Kitchen Style!

Today, we’ll be offering up some of the best backsplash ideas for your kitchen that are on the scene this season. Backsplash is the best accessory that you can add to your kitchen to make it unique or give it a real wow factor, so choosing the right tile for you is crucial. In the past, backsplash has been limited to certain shapes, materials, or sizes. Well, the past is in the past, because today, you can use virtually ANY tile choice you please and make it your own, if done the right way of course. Here are some of our favorite picks in no particular order that may be somewhat unconventional, but definitely memorable.

1. Ledger Stone Backsplash Ideas

This ledger stone is called Gold Rush, and we offer this in stock, every day. There are 6 different color variations, but the result with all of them is the same: unique, rough around the edges, while still looking high class. It works perfectly with the rustic or craftsman style. Ledger stone backsplash ideas are some of my favorites, because they aren’t overdone & are not seen on a very regular basis, making them even more unique.

2. Arabesque Pattern Backsplash

The arabesque pattern backsplash is probably one of my very favorites in this list. It looks elegant, somewhat vintage, and also works with the farmhouse or rustic vibe when used appropriately. The unique shape catches your eye and keeps your interest. Definitely a more feminine choice, but I have known men that are fond of it as well! We offer the Arabesque Antique White in store as one of our in stock backsplash options, found here.

3. Brick Tile Backsplash Options

This red brick is actually a TILE, making it that much more appealing! Brick is hot right now, and brick backsplash ideas are gorgeous! It works for both males and females in the industrial style, rustic style, farmhouse style, or even the traditional style. The fact that it’s a tile makes it fairly easy to install, and while this is a custom order product from our store, it has a very short lead time. This Capella Red Brick Tile is definitely a winner in my opinion.

4. Large Tile “Flooring” Backsplash Ideas

This is a definitely a recent trend. People are no longer sticking to the basic, small, backsplash tile to complete their kitchen. Today, it is becoming quite common to take a typical floor tile and install it as your backsplash. This grey backsplash is extremely versatile in terms of color palettes that will match and styles that it will coordinate with. We offer a large selection of this type of tile in store, as well as in our custom order options. To see our in stock tile selection, click here.

5. Traditional Subway Tile With a Twist

Subway tile backsplash is one of the most classic and commonly used backsplash ideas. There are many colors to choose from in several different materials, but this is a new twist on an old favorite. The tiles are no longer flat, but have a wavy texture to them that gives it a “handmade” look. We love it and so far, our customers have too!

6. Textured Pebble Stone Backsplash

Click Photo To View Product

This is one of the most surprising of the backsplash ideas, in my opinion. This is typically not a tile that you see used for backsplash in kitchens. I have seen this in many bathrooms, on the floors of showers, etc, but it is so gorgeous in the photo above! It gives it a very zen feeling. That, paired with the neutrals of black quartz countertops and white shaker cabinets, make it a neutral, peaceful kitchen that most people would love to have!

7. Bright Colored Glass Mosaic

Click Photo To View Image

This is another one of the backsplash ideas that has been primarily used in bathrooms up until recently. The shimmery, bright, glass mosaic tile makes a big statement and gives the kitchen a colorful pop! These are typically best suited with neutral colored cabinets. This blue tile is another of our in stock options in our Cincinnati / Newport location, as well as our Louisville, Ky location.

8. Geometric Patterned Backsplash

Carrara marble backsplash is a popular choice, and has been for years. It is the ultimate in luxury and style. However, the shapes that this gorgeous stone is being made into have definitely changed over the years. The geometric and hexagon shapes are extremely popular right now, in any material, but pair that with the classic elegance of marble, and you’ve definitely got a winner on your hards. Any kitchen would be so lucky to be graced by its presence.

9. Mixed Metals Mosaics

Click Photo To View Product

Mixing metals with glass mosaics is a great new trend that we love! It adds a bit of shine and glam without being overly girly. The backsplash above is a great choice for men and women alike. It is definitely a great choice for modern and contemporary styles. Get more ideas for other metal backsplash ideas here.

10. Bead Board Backsplash

Bead board is such a simple, classic piece that can go in virtually every room of your home. The rise of the farmhouse style has definitely increased the use of bead board. This is one of the most simple ideas that adds a very lovely touch to whatever space you add it to, which in this case would be your kitchen. This is custom order option available in our store that will make your favorite room stand out in the crowd while adding a cozy, home grown feel.

We hope yo have enjoyed our list of the top 10 backsplash ideas for your kitchen! If you have questions on any of the backsplash options that we offer, or would like help with design and installation, please reach out to us and we will be happy to help! Thanks for reading and don’t forget to like, share and pin away! Please sign up for our newsletter to receive great content on a bi-weekly basis.

Builders Surplus is a full service remodeling company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, which comes as a free service to our clients. We sell building supplies ranging from unused surplus, to first quality in stock, to high end custom order and everything in between. We also provide measurement and full installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designerswe would encourage you to do so. Happy Remodeling!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

September 25, 2019

Why Durability is More Important Than Price in a Remodel

Today, I’d like to discuss a pretty important topic in the remodeling experience: Durability vs. Price. Now, as we all know, home renovation & remodeling can be quite expensive, which makes it easy to fall under the “cheap way is best way” mentality, but lets evaluate several ways in which durability actually makes your project cheaper, not more expensive.

Durability: More Bang for Your Buck

Flooring Example

Whether you’re in the process of selling your home or your home is rather outdated and it’s time for a change, the outcome is all the same: Renovation will improve value. For the most part, at least.

For example, ripping up the linoleum in your kitchen or bathroom and replacing it with ceramic tile isn’t going to drive you to raise the price of your home in a significant way. But what it will do is appeal to the home buyer.

I think it goes without saying that when it comes to saying yes or no, to pulling the trigger during your home search, it’s the amenities that can make all the difference.

On the flip side, if you’ve just installed tile flooring in your laundry room, you’ve made a strong, choice. Linoleum has the tendency to stain easily, rip & tear at the edges, and quite honestly, is seen as a “too cheap” option. In essence, that kind of flooring doesn’t last long.

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durable

Additionally, if you keep replacing it every two to three years, you’re losing quite a bit of money on the long run. Replacing it with something as strong, durable, and long-lasting as ceramic tile may, yes, be a bit more expensive, but you’ll never have to rip up those floors again. Durability wins.

Kitchen Cabinet example

Another example would be your kitchen cabinets. Let us assume that the kitchen cabinets you open and close day-after-day are the same, ole relatively bland cabinets that you first set eyes on when you walked in. Now, I’m not knocking your cabinets by any means, but perhaps they’re looking a bit rugged (and not in the good way) these days.

Perhaps, the corners are withered from constant usage, the doors slam so hard, waking up the whole house because the hinges & drawer slides are giving way, there are countless spaghetti sauce, grape jelly, and bacon grease stains scattered across the surface.

They’ve had their run, right? It’s time for a change. So you come to Builders Surplus, sit down with one of our professionals and look at your options. Sure, you can go the less-expensive route, grab some in-stock Honey Ash cabinets, and call it a day.

But you’ll be right back in the same spot in five years because the durability just isn’t there in that selection. Again, not knocking Honey Ash cabinets, but let’s call a spade, a spade, yeah?

In the Long Run

The reason they’re our least expensive option is because their craftsmanship, their features, their overall longevity is far inferior to, let’s say, Waypoint or Wellborn cabinets.

Now, alternatively, let’s say you sit down and check out the aforementioned and purchase a beautiful set of kitchen cabinets from Wellborn.

Is the price going to be higher? Yes.

But is the durability there? 100%

Are you going to thank yourself ten years down the road when they look and function as good as they did when they were installed. Absolutely.

That’s the key right there, my friends. It’s understanding that you’ll pay more initially for extreme durability, but in the long run, now only does it pay for itself, you’ve invested in something that could potentially last a lifetime.

The price of that linoleum or those Honey Ash cabinets that you paid for five years ago is not going to be the same when you inevitably have to replace them in a few years. It will be higher, and you will hate it.

Durability wins because it prevails, where price does not — it conquers time.

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I hope I’ve managed to open your minds up a bit when it comes why durability is more important than price during your remodel. But don’t just take it from, please. I encourage you to do as much research as you can before, during, and after your remodel.

Click here to check out any of our blogs and you’ll be able to research just about anything you can imagine!

And remember, at Builders Surplus we offer FREE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN CONSULTATIONS, meaning we are more than willing to help you along the way. It can be a crazy process, so it’s always nice to have some professional support to fall back on!

October 15, 2018

Stone Tile: The Pros and Cons

Natural stone tile is one of the most beautiful tile materials around. They give warmth and beauty to a home and go with virtually any type of decor. Natural stones tiles are also eco-friendly, which makes them perfect for those who are concerned about the environment.

There are many types of natural stone, including marble, slate, granite, travertine, limestone and sandstone.

Each stone has its own unique properties, so make sure to research the specific material you choose to make the best decision.

Natural stone is very sturdy and durable, are well insulated and can be a great option for homeowners with kids or pets.

However, there are several things you need to consider before deciding on stone tile for your home. Just because you love the beauty and eco-friendly properties, doesn’t always make it the best fit for you or your family.

With any remodeling choice, it’s important to weigh the pros, cons, installation and maintenance requirements before you can make an informed choice that will make you happy long term.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP ALL TILE!

Click to shop tile

Cons of Stone Tile

There are several cons of stone tile, which many people are unaware of. The high cost of purchase is one of them. .

Some of the other issues with stone tile is the material itself. Some of them can be easily scratched or chipped, can flake off or can be brittle.

If or when damage does occur, it can often be difficult to fix.

Stone tile is also a porous material, which means that it can easily be stained if not regularly sealed. This means that it’s more high maintenance than other tile materials.

Stone Tile Installation

Installation of stone tile can also be tricky. It’s one of the heaviest stones, meaning that if your subfloor is not completely level, you can find that you tile may snap or break.

There are some other installation issues to consider when deciding on stone tile. Be aware that there’s a big difference between installing stone tile and ceramic tile specifically over wood framing.

Unfortunately, most people think stone tile products can be installed over a wood-framed floor in the same way as is ceramic and porcelain tile. This is completely untrue and will many times lead to a very costly replacement.

This is because tiles made from natural stone don’t have the same strength as ceramic tiles and they require a floor system that’s twice as stiff as what is required for ceramic floor tile.

The 2015 TCNA Handbook has only one approved method for the installation of natural stone tile over wood framing with backer board. Make sure you look into the requirements before you get started on stone tile installation.

Stone tile floor structures must be twice as stiff as ceramic tile.

Factors to Consider in Stone Tile Purchases

Here are a few of the factors you should consider in the purchase of an individual style of stone tile.

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Stone Tile Grade:

Some retailers use a grading system to rate the quality of materials. This can refer to the size, shape, and thickness of the tile, as well as it’s surface condition. Here are the three grade levels and what they mean:

Grade 1 – high quality, uniform materials.
Grade 2 – materials with minor defects, such as chips, scratches, or irregular surfaces.
Grade 3 – major flaws in size, shape, surface, or chipping, making them appropriate only as accent pieces, or in certain rustic decorative applications.

Absorption Rating:

This refers to how porous a material is. The more absorbent it is, the more easily it can be stained or cracked under freezing temperatures. Sandstone being the most porous and granite being the least, which is basically waterproof as long as it’s sealed. Here are the absorption ratings:

Non-vitreous: highest absorption level. Not great for damp environments.
Semi-vitreous: Less absorbent, but the more liquid they’re exposed to, the more maintenance they need.
Vitreous: Standard absorption level. Appropriate for low to mid traffic indoor and outdoor areas.
Impervious: Resistant to the absorption and easy to maintain. Great for high traffic areas.
Polished materials also absorb less water than honed or matte surfaces.

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Coefficient of Friction

This measures how slippery various materials are. The higher the coefficient, the more traction a tile will have. This is really important in potentially wet areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Rating

Some stone tile options are better for outdoor areas than others.

Non-vitreous materials can be stained through dirt and acid rain, or cracked if they freeze and expand. Chose something with a higher coefficient to avoid slipping in weather conditions.

Oxidation

Natural stone materials are formed beneath the earth. Sometimes iron is present in these materials, which can show up as bright red and amber specs in the surface of the stone. The problem in an outdoor environment is that those traces of iron can oxidize, or rust.

Now that you know everything to consider before purchasing stone tile for your home, I hope you feel confident enough to make the best decision for you and your home!

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August 28, 2018

2018 Remodeling Trends To Watch For

With a new year comes new 2018 remodeling trends. Each year we come up with a list of styles to predict, observe, love or hate. Here is what we've found to be at the top of the list for 2018! Let us know what you think in the comments!

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1. Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are raining king of countertops. Granite has slowly been losing market share and is not longer in first place on our list of 2018 remodeling trends. Why? Well, quartz countertops offer very little downside. The opening price point of $58/sf FULLY INSTALLED (at Builders Surplus) is comparable to custom granite.

The variety of colors is so much greater than you could get in granite, especially solid white. It's stain proof, scratch resistant and heat resistant. Some brands are also completely antibacterial. Huge benefits, no negatives, at least in my book. We LOVE Quartz Countertops!

Grey Quartz Countertops, 2018 Remodeling Trends

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2. Gold and Brass fixtures

Whether you call it gold, or you call it brass, the fact remains: it’s a 2018 remodeling trend. The contrast of gold against colors like black, grey and navy can provide a stunning statement. You can even mix it up and mix metals, like black finishes! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Brass and gold fixtures

3. Effective Storage Solutions

Kitchens are one room that become cluttered and dirty fairly easily. In the last few years we’ve seen an increase in cool storage ideas, but we believe that 2018 is going to be the year that the market really embraces them. There are so many amazing ways to organize your kitchen to free up space, make it more functional, and fit more in your cabinets in a way that you weren’t able to do before! Check out all of our ’11 Minutes or Less’ products and see how you can organize your space!

Kitchen storage, 2018 remodeling trends

4. Large format tile

One of my favorite 2018 remodeling trends is large format tile. Large format tile is a tile larger than 15″ on any side. This included wood look tile, which has become a huge trend in the last year. Large format time can make a space look bigger and it can be less expensive and time consuming to install that smaller pieces. When you use one style throughout a room, it can add a nice level of uniformity to the space.

Large format tile, 2018 remodeling trends

5. Concrete Tile Styles

This year, I predict we’ll see more urban and industrial style spaces using tile that imitates concrete! Concrete can be hard to install if you don’t have it already exposed, so this is the perfect alternative! It gives you an upscale, yet rough around the edges look. Greys go with just about anything, so you can’t go wrong!

Concrete-tile 2018 remodeling trends

6. Cabinet Colors: White stays, grey grows, taupe is trending, color is coming!

White kitchen cabinets have been the top cabinet color for several years. It’s not going out completely. White cabinets can do a few things. They make a space look bigger, and give a feel of cleanliness to a sometimes cluttered space. It’s a timeless look that probably won’t EVER go out of style. But it is taking a backseat to some of the other hot colors of the moment.

Grey has been growing in popularity for the last 2 years, and we’ll continue to see that with more dove grey colors, a lighter and creamier grey than we’ve seen a lot in the past. Taupe cabinets are one of my favorite trends of 2018!

Stained wood cabinets have not been on trend in quite a few years, but this gives that natural wood feel, while still being a painted cabinet. You’ll see light taupe as shown below, but there are darker wood stains that are mixed with taupe that bring an elegance back to stained wood that we haven’t seen for a while.

Taupe cabinets, 2018 remodeling trends

Color is coming, people! Bold is no longer just for the brave. Well, you probably need to have a slightly daring style, but it’s becoming more commonplace to see brightly or boldly colored cabinets. Blues, such as navy, robins egg blue, and cerulean are all colors I’m loving on cabinets at the moment!

Kitchen storage, 2018 remodeling trends

7. Dark Flooring

Dark flooring is making a come back in 2018! The rich dark stains contrasted against walls, window frames and furniture give a crisp and elegant style to any room. It feels upscale and sophisticated. While lighter floors still look great, we expect to sell a lot of dark wood this year!

Dark-hardwood-flooring

8. Patterned Tile

Patterned tile is one of my favorite 2018 remodeling trends. I love is so much that I’m about to do my master bathroom floor in the tile top right :)! It’s fun, funky, and elegant all at the same time. It adds visual interest, movement and true style! This can go on floors, backsplashes, fireplaces or accent walls! It’s a great way to add pizzaz to any space!

patterned tile 2018 remodeling trends

9. Black framed windows

Black framed windows were very common decades ago, but they’re starting to make a comeback, and look darn good while doing it! This gives a more modern vide but can be used on any style home to give an updated feel. Love them!

black framed windows, 2018 remodeling trends

10. Bold Interior Doors

Interior doors are no longer the boring, standard, 6 panel white doors you’re used to seeing. They’re colorful, they have unique patterns, designs, and materials used on them. Barn doors are used on any doorway and we’re absolutely loving it! It takes a boring necessity and turns it into a focal point in your home.

bold doors, 2018 remodeling trends

There you have it, my predictions for 2018 remodeling trends. Let me know which ones you love or those that you don’t in the comments below! We’ll see what happens as the year goes on!

Schedule Your FREE Kitchen & Bath Design Appointment!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Bathroom Remodeling, Bathroom Cabinets, Vanity tops and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

January 2, 2018

Unique Places to Use Tile in Your Home

Hello, everyone! I hope all is well, and you’re enjoying the holidays. Christmas is almost here, and like always, the season of giving never fails to provide a bit of inspiration. Today, I’d like to discuss some ways to uniquely use tile throughout your home. Ya see, it doesn’t just have to go on your floors; you can use it elsewhere, as well.

Tile on a Tabletop

Perhaps you have and old, withering table that’s been begging for a chance at new life. This is the perfect way to achieve that new, refreshing look. You’re also able to get kind of creative with it. Choose a mixture of mosaic tile pieces and display a brilliant pattern, or mix-match a few large format tiles that blend together to get an alluring, two-tone look.

Daltile

A few pointers, though. This method works best if you have a square table, simply because of cuts & corners. Don’t let that deter you, though, if you have a circular table lying around. It may take a bit more time, but the finished product will be well worth it.
Also, if you’re thinking of setting tile atop a patio table, be mindful of rainfall and/or water spills. During installation, you can prevent eventual stagnant water by applying just a bit more adhesive on the back of the very middle piece. Not too large of a slope, obviously, but just enough for water runoff.

Tile on a Fireplace

This is an absolutely beautiful look. One of the first things my father did when he bought their house was rip out the standard, mediocre wood trim that flanked the fireplace, and installed a gorgeous collaboration of white and black marble tiles. After crafting an intricate mantlepiece, their fireplace now emulates the Victorian Era, bringing warmth to the room, fire blazing or not.

Also, and we’ve discussed this plenty of times before, the look of Ledge Stone on a fireplace would give anyone pause. Its stone face provides the appearance of stability, a raw elegance that seems fixed in time. In my opinion, fireplaces tend to capture the eye, as if it calls to be decorated. Using a unique material such as tile, in any style, will not only exemplify this fact, but leave no gaze dissatisfied.

Tile on Columns

If you’re a fan of Roman architecture, then you probably already have this transfixed in your mind’s eye. Columns throughout the home pop-up in the most random of places, usually to mask structural beam supports, like in a basement.
In my parent’s house, my father merely framed around the steel beam in the middle of the basement floor and created a Y-split at the top to add some curvature. He drywalled, primed and painted, but there’s another approach — tile.

Photo: Katy Tile & Marble

Instead of adhering to the mundane (Sorry, pops), you can fasten concrete board to the stud frame and install the tile of your choosing. Think I’m crazy? The effect is brilliant. It always baffles me that a simple switch in building material can completely alter a look, this time for the better.
Like the aforementioned, this combination of an already eye-grabbing feature (the column) and the standard attention tile brings, speaks of strength. A pure, gorgeous, and elaborate ensemble.

Tile on the Ceiling

I know what’re thinking, and that was my first thought, too. The what-if factor comes into play when discussing ceramic or porcelain tiled ceilings. How disastrous it would be if one them fell, right? It’s a thought that throws gravity under the bus, but this is why a right & proper install is of the the utmost importance. I lead with the negative to hit you with the positive, though.

When it comes to this unique method, I need you to think Italian Renaissance, okay? During the days of Donatello, method de Medici, came the spirit of such revolutionizing art that historians gave the era a name. If it can be done in the 16th century, then it sure as heck can be executed in the 21st.
It’s nearly 2018, my friends, we have pocket computers that scan our faces these days. If we can’t manage a few tiles on the ceiling, are we really progressing?
Okay, not my best argument, but you can understand where I’m coming from. The point is, it’s doable, plus it’s not art for the sake of art. When done correctly, you have something unique above your head. No popcorn or textured ceilings. No foam squares befitting of corporate offices. Tile.

So, to wrap it all up, tabletops, fireplaces, columns, and ceilings. Four unique areas to use tile. When it comes to home remodeling & renovation, the options are endless, and we understand that. But there’s also the other side of the spectrum. How to create a style that no one else has, something truly original. I encourage, no, I dare you to be different. Rough the edges. Go against the grain. Make something really special, something you’re proud of. This is just the start.
Think on it. If you decide on something and plan on doing a kitchen or bath remodel anytime soon, let us know. Click here to setup an appointment, and we’ll throw some ideas around with you. Happy Remodeling, everyone!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are one of the leading providers of kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, flooring and tile installations, windows and doors in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, quartz countertops, granite countertops, marble countertops, bathroom vanity tops, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients.
We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written by: Chris Chamberlain

December 8, 2017

The Challenges of Laying Large Format Tile

How’s it going, everyone! I hope you’ve found some time to enjoy the beautiful Fall scenery and enjoying the euphoria that only this season can bring. Today I’d like to discuss a facet of tile flooring: The large format tile. While there are certainly many advantages to using large format tile, especially in wide, spacious areas, it definitely charters a few challenges, as well. Let’s discuss, shall we?

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Large Format Tile: The Long Haul

Other, smaller tiles are easy enough to haul around, and where that may not seem like a huge deal beforehand, you’ll thank yourself when having to load and unload your materials. With a large format tile, well it’s simply that, a larger challenge. Considering each box contains roughly 7-10 pieces, each weighing about 4-5 pounds each, it can get kind of heavy, especially since you’re more than likely setting it in a large area, say, a living room or a basement. So, imagine if you will, that the average basement is 1,000 sq. ft, and your typical large format tile comes in a 12×12 piece, one square foot. Do the math. Your jaw dropped a little bit, didn’t it? You’d need 1,000 tiles to complete your floor, which means carrying about a 100 boxes of tile down a flight of steps, not to mention maneuvering them as you complete a section. It’s a tremendous, near-back-breaking task that can easily substitute as a couple of workouts, and this is just preparation alone. [bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth_last”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”clear”][/bscolumns]

Large Format Tile: Lippage

Lippage is the degree to which one tile rises above an adjoining one, giving the look of unevenness, and it’s extra noticeable in larger tiles because of the space it covers. Now, you may think, “If the subfloor is level, how can lippage occur?” Some of the tiles themselves aren’t exactly even all the way across depending on material, and two, if you plan on subsetting the tile with a 50% offset, you’re just asking for it. For clarity, that means setting one row of tile down and then starting another row with a tile in the middle of the last. Worst case: Lippage can cause one to trip and fall, and no one wants those problems. large format tile Now, just because this type of tile is prone to such behavior definitely doesn’t mean it’s unavoidable. Before install, make sure the area your working on is 100% completely level. If not, grabbing a few bags of floor leveler will do the trick. After all, the installation process is a feat in itself, the last thing you want to see when the entire job is finished is a rolling wave in the middle of your floor or miniature Alps along the edges.

Large Format Tile: Installation

This goes hand-in-hand with the previous challenge, but I want to talk a little bit about the entire process as a whole. Now, this is a blog post about the challenges, but one of the advantages of large format tile is being able to get around tricky spots — door casings, trim, toilet holes, etc — with only a couple pieces of tile. But there’s a catch. Since this tile is relatively larger, it can be hard to maneuver, to level out, and bond with the mortar. Indeed, there may be times you where you have to literally do a push-up atop the tile to even it out. Trust me, I’d had to do it. But to prevent lippage, this is something that has to be done. large format tile Cutting can be a task, as well. There’s no doubt about that. Having to haul each large piece and praying it doesn’t crack from the tile machine can be a bit stressful, but it comes with the job. I suggest using a very careful approach when using this form of tile, especially if you’re installing a tile shower surround. [bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”one_fourth_last”] [/bscolumns][bscolumns class=”clear”][/bscolumns] Well, there you have it, folks. A few of the challenges that come with laying large format tile. But, please, don’t let this deter you. There are plenty more advantages than disadvantages in using large format tile. It’s well worth it, especially in bigger, wider areas! Feel free to check out our selection of large format tile, too! Just click here. Be safe and stay blessed, everyone!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentuck y, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation! Written by: Chris Chamberlain

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November 21, 2017

Home Design Trends at Homearama

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If you’re looking for home design trends, look no further than Homearama. This year’s Homearama was held at Poplar Woods in Goshen Kentucky and it was a truly spectacular event! We’ve already covered blogs on kitchen and bathroom home design trends from Homearama 2017, so this post will cover all the other spaces of the house that you can use to create the masterpiece that is your home.

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Kitchen Design: Trends & Resolutions for 2016: FeaturedA

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This Year’s Top Home Design Trends

LIVING SPACES

High Ceilings and Ceiling Detail

The first thing I noticed in terms of home design trends at this year’s Homearama was the incredible ceiling detail! Here are a few below, but there were so many more. From beams, tile, distressed wood, and intricate trey ceilings, you found yourself constantly looking up. It’s amazing the way a high ceiling seems to add so much more space to the room – not that these rooms were lacking square footage!

Built In Cabinets

I love the look of built in cabinets. It’s one home design trend that can really stand the test of time. It’s a great way to add storage to your space, frame a fireplace, or add a nice furniture style element to a room that may be lacking it. The decorative pieces that you’re able to showcase in built in cabinets also lets you add a touch of personality.

Tiled Fireplaces

There were fireplaces in virtually every homearama home. Some even had more than one! While brick fireplaces or standard wooden mantles may have cut it in the past, that’s no longer the case. The latest home design trend is tiled fireplaces. From ledge stone and intricate mesh back tile shown below to marble and large format, the choice is up to you! No matter what you choose, it will add a unique touch to your home. ledgestone fireplace home design trends

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is one of my absolute favorite home design trends, although I can’t seem to convince my husband of it’s awesomeness. It’s such a beautiful way to add texture, pattern, color and style to a space. Your furnishings could be completely neutral or standard, but add some fun wallpaper and you’re room has upped it’s cool factor.

FLOORING

Rich, Rustic Hardwood Flooring

We saw so many beautiful floor coverings this year! One flooring home design trend that really stuck out was the hardwood floors. It was mostly mid toned to dark, with lots of “cracks”, knots and character in it. The modern rustic design style is still very much on trend, and the flooring proved that. If you can’t afford natural hardwood, there are some amazing laminates and LVT flooring which offer the same rustic look! hardwood flooring home design trends

Wood Look Tile

I love wood look tile! Wood is such an amazing material, but it just doesn’t work well for bathrooms or laundry rooms due to it’s lack of water resistance. Wood look tile is the perfect compromise! The wood look tile’s below resemble real wood so closely but they are so much more durable and suited perfectly for the spaces in which they’re placed. You can barely tell they’re tile! wood look tile home design trends

Large Format Tile

Large format tile was definitly a notable home design trend this year, from flooring, to shower surrounds, kitchen backsplash and fireplace tile, it was EVERYWHERE! Large format tile is anything that is 15″ or larger on any side. It can be heavy and difficult to install, though, so make sure you consult a professional before trying it yourself! large format tile home design trends

DOORS

Iron and/or Arched Front Doors

Iron and arched front doors are definitly in style. They are a great investment as they can give you an awesome return on investment upon resale. They are also STUNNING and give a great first impression for your home. Not to mention the iron doors are great for keeping intruders OUT! iron doors home design trends

French Doors

French patio doors are gorgeous. The glass lets the light rain in and brings the outdoors inside your home. This make space look brighter and bigger. I don’t know about you, but even if I’m inside, I still want to feel like I’m outside, and these doors do just that. We saw so many french door patio sets at homearama, making it a new home design trend to emulate! patio doors home design trends

Two Panel Interior Doors

6 panel doors are not exactly a hot item. The home design trend for interior doors is definitly two panel, with arched or raised detail. This makes your home feel more custom, not builder grade. You can upgrade your interior doors for a relatively small price and it can make a huge difference on the interior vibe in your home. We have TONS of doors like this available for custom order, so ask us about them for your home! interior door home design trends

Sliding Barn Doors

Sliding barn doors have been hot home design trends the last two years, and this year is no exception. However, one thing I did notice was that it was less about the stained wooden doors, and more about painted or more modern style doors with glass. While both styles are still very popular, it seems that this style is moving towards modern rustic instead of simply rustic. Either way, I love sliding barn doors! Check out the options here! sliding barn doors home design trends

Those are our favorite home design trends for 2017 and we were happy to share them with you! What’s your favorite?

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

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September 22, 2017

Tile Flooring & Backsplash Tile Options Compared

When looking for tile flooring or backsplash tile, it can get a little confusing. There are many patterns, styles, sizes, and materials to choose from. What are the pros and cons you might ask? Well, we’re here to lay it out for your straight. Below we’ll compare all the top tile choices for tile flooring or backsplash tile.

Backsplash Tile and Tile Flooring Materials:

Ceramic Tile:

Ceramic tile is one of the most popular options for backsplash tile or tile flooring. Ceramic usually reflects the terra cotta color of it’s clay, or can also be white. Ceramic tile is sometimes glazed and occasionally has different patterns on it as a result. Chips can be much more noticeable in ceramic tile than they are in porcelain. If a ceramic tile has been glazed, the chip will reveal a different color internally. Ceramic tile is not as strong as porcelain tile due to the manufacturing process. This means that it cannot be expected to hold up nearly as well.
You typically don’t want to put ceramic tile anywhere that is a high traffic area or that will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear. Ceramic flooring in an entryway, for example, would be a bad idea. Not only will it much more easily chip or crack if you drop something on it, but those imperfections are going to be pretty noticeable. Backsplash tile works well with ceramic tile and you can also use it on countertops if you choose. The consensus is that ceramic tile is easier to install than porcelain tile. If you are a DIY tile installer or a novice tile worker, I would say choose ceramic tile.

Porcelain Tile:

The other top choice for backsplash tile is porcelain. Porcelain backsplash tile or tile flooring is almost always going to be white, grey or cream/tan. Porcelain tile is almost always left unglazed. Chips are not very noticeable. This is because porcelain tile is the same color all the way through. This is a big benefit for many people when choosing porcelain over ceramic.
Porcelain tile is denser and less porous than ceramic tile and doesn’t show its imperfections easily and it’s also more waterproof. However, you still don’t want them exposed to that level of damage from the elements. Because of the water resistance issue, porcelain is a better choice for flooring in bathrooms or on shower walls. Porcelain would be a better flooring choice for most areas that get a high amount of traffic due to their increased durability. Porcelain tile is harder to cut, especially when the cuts are not a straight line. Porcelain can also require special tools to install, so you may want to get professional installation.

Stone Tile:

There are many forms of stone tile, so we won’t go into detail about all of them, but will give you a gist of each. Most stone tiles will need to be sealed before and/or after installing and be kept up with sealing thought out the years. This makes it a little more high maintenance than the rest.

Travertine Left, Marble Right

Marble:
Pros: Beautiful colors and patterns, because its natural, no two tiles are ever the same.
Cons: Prone to staining, will show wear quickly from acid based products.
Travertine:
Travertine needs to be sealed before grouting and after installation. If it’s not sealed, it will stain easily. Travertine tile is a softer stone, which means it can be scratched much more easily.
Pros: Beautiful, unique tile. Can feel soft when used as a flooring. Looks great as a backsplash.
Cons: It can scratch and stain fairly easily.

Slate Left, Granite Right

Granite:
Granite is very heavy. The subfloor must be completely level and have the strength to support such a heavy material. If the floor has bumps or even tiny valleys, granite will crack easily if used as a flooring. It can be used as a backsplash but needs to be installed properly.
Pros: Beautiful color, hard surface that takes wear and tear from normal family life.
Cons: One of the heaviest flooring choices, must have support in place.
Slate:
Slate It is more stain resistant that most other stone, is water resistant and very durable. Slate can be cracked if laid on an uneven subfloor, or if a heavy object is dropped on it. It has been known to flake or peel because it’s formed in layers. This tile needs to be sealed.
Pros: Dark, earthy color works well with a natural, rustic look. Very durable.
Cons: Tiles can be uneven due to the layering quality of the tile.

Backsplash Tile and Tile Flooring Styles:

Subway Tile: Subway tile is a classic style. If you’re looking for something that will stand the test of time, this is it. However, just because it’s classic doesn’t make it boring. There are a lot of variations of subway tile. You have handcrafted that has a beautiful crafted finish, glass, which is more modern, colored for a pop of personality, large format to make the room look bigger, or a smaller format for a dramatic look. The options are endless. Subway tile installation can be very time consuming, so if you don’t have patience and tile skill, get a pro to install. This is more costly of an installation than some because of the time it takes.
Mesh Back Tile: Mesh back tile is great for several reasons. It comes in foot by foot sheets, so it can go up pretty quickly. Cuts can often be done without a tile saw and you can use tile nippers (depending on the project). It comes in some really amazing shapes and patterns that would usually be a pain to install as individual tiles. Very popular these days.

Ledge Stone: I wouldn’t recommend ledge stone as a tile flooring, but it does work great as a backsplash tile. It has an uneven surface that juts out in some area and is recessed in some areas. It is heavy, so it does require a special installation. It can be difficult to clean because of the texture and surface, so areas that won’t get very dirty would be ideal places to use this tile.
Patterned Tile: Patterned tile is becoming very popular. They are typically porcelain so they can be used in any area and are water resistant. You can use them for backsplash tile or flooring tile. They will definitly make a statement! They are typically perfect square tiles with the pattern printed on top. I love this look and hope it remains popular for years to come.

Large Format Tile:
Large format tile is a great choice for backsplash tile or tile flooring. Because it’s large, you can cover more space quickly, however, it’s still very important to take your time during installation because it can easily have lippage (edges sticking up) because of it’s size. Using a tile leveling system is always recommended with large format tile, which is classified as anything larger than 15″ on any side. Large format can make a space look larger, so it works well for small spaces! When using it on walls, you need to be sure that you’re using an adhesive designed for large tile, otherwise it could come down and take some of your drywall with it!
I hope we’ve been able to help answer any questions that you might have about backsplash tile or tile flooring choices. There are a lot of options out there so it’s good to have all the information before buying. Replacing tile is a large undertaking most of the time, so make sure you choose something that you will be happy with and that will stand up to the area you’ll be using it in for the next 20 years!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written by: Allie Bloyd

September 12, 2017

A Flooring Type Comparison

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Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to do a bit a flooring type comparison, and go over the several different options that you, as a homeowner or contractor, have to fulfill your flooring needs. We’ll look at Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), Hardwood, Laminate, and different types of Tile flooring.

For all intensive purposes, I’ll use the prices that we currently have in store, knowing they’re the lowest, most cost-effective around. Get everything, without spending everything, indeed!

LVT Flooring

Luxury Vinyl Tile is a beautifully engineered piece of flooring that combines both aesthetics with high functionality. And this is huge reason why LVT has become such a huge hit within households everywhere.

Do you remember when you used to be limited to where you could put certain parts of flooring i.e. bathrooms, any place where water is present? Well, this flooring type switched the game in that respect. But more on that later…

Click here! – Shop LVT

Price: This flooring type generally ranges from an all-time low of $1.79 to just short of $6. Our CoreTEC LVT is absolutely amazing, definitely a “more bang for your buck” kind of product. Check the link, peeps, you’ll see what I’m talking about.

Waterproofness: If you did a double take at that word, I don’t blame you. I voiced this word out loud, and my boss was like, “Uhhh…yeah, not a word,” but after a simple Google search, I learned that it IS, in fact, a word. Just a little tidbit. Moving on.

This is where the high-functionality comes from in LVT. This flooring type is 100% WATERPROOF. Not water-resistant, merely repelling droplets..I mean zero-damage. None whatsoever.

I’ve explained it before, and I’ll do so again. You could pour a jug of water on LVT, leave for a vacation, come back, and the piece would be good as new. It’s that good people.

You could technically put it in your bathroom. Some would frown at it, this being an extremely unconventional approach to a bathroom design, but heck, I say go for it. Literally, go against the grain.

Durability: Another functionality characteristic, LVT doesn’t just Kung Fu the crap out of water, but also scratches. And dents. Plus, it’s strong.

So, the next time you decide to juggle a few cans of green beans, and then time kinda stands still as you watch one go amiss, propelling towards your new floors, remember this blog, remember this passage, don’t forget this sentence — it’s okay.

It’s going to take a little more than green beans and water to damage this flooring type. A hammer, sure. But I’m sure you’ll find other ways to blow off steam than taking a hand tool to your new floors. But that’s none of my business. *Sips tea*

Click here! – Shop LVT

Additional: I’d also just like to point out, or reiterate rather, that because LVT is water’s nemesis, this flooring is perfect for dang-near any space. Bathrooms? Check. Kitchens? For sure. Basements? Have at it. Laundry room? An excellent pick. It’s an excellent flooring type for any room in your household.

Side note: If you’re worried about sound, LVT usually has sound muffling cork backing. I’m telling you, LVT virtually has no cons.

Hardwood Flooring

Ah, the veteran of the group. There’s something naturally rich about using solid wood for your floors. It’s genuine, it’s authentic, and I personally think it gives off the impression of good taste, but that’s me. Now, where there are some extreme advantages to using this flooring type, there are also some disadvantages that may or may not sway your opinion.

Especially given the glorious gallantry of its enhanced, “definitely-had-work-done” cousin that we just talked about. Dramatics. In any case, it’s still a fantastic choice for your floors. Selectively speaking.

Click here! – Shop Hardwood

Price: Unfinished hardwood starts out at $1.39, while finished products typically range from $1.39 to $4.99. Again, the dynamics of each definitely contribute to price, but as a homeowner, as a consumer, you understand that with just about anything, you get what you pay for. We carry Solid Hardwood, Engineered Hardwood, and Cork Flooring, an up-and-coming flooring type that’s truly wondrous to behold.

Waterproofness: 100%…NOT WATERPROOF. ‘Nuff said there.

Durability: Here’s the category where some of the drawbacks nastily congregate. Hardwood tends to be very easily scratched. If you’ve ever moved in or out of a place that sports hardwood floors then you no doubt know exactly what I’m talking about. It can also be dented and quite easily I might add. Better practice your juggling skills outside, people.

BUT…because of this solidness, this flooring type can be refinished, therefore making it an extremely lasting product. All it takes is a nice dose of care and less chaos.

Click here! – Shop Hardwood

Additional: This is a favorite for many folks. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that most home buyers often look for this sort of feature. But, you’ve been warned. Because of its surface, this flooring type isn’t extremely pet friendly, should not be anywhere near water prone areas, and it’s immensely difficult to install yourself. Tongue-and-groove can make a day go south really, really quick.

Laminate Flooring

This flooring type sometimes takes a bad rap for being cheap or too ordinary. But I’ve always adhered to the school of thought that there’s literally beauty in everything, so no matter. There are definitely some positive sides to laminate, some unbeknownst to others. First off…the funds.

Click here! – Shop Laminate

Price: In our stores, Laminate generally stays around $0.99 to $2.89/ sf. Now, in comparison to the other flooring types, you can see how people could regard this as cheaply made or why you here negative comments about the price. But to me, it’s the opposite.

It’s kind of like when someone is called a lightweight when they’re out socially drinking with their friends, and the person in question fails to see negatory punchline. After all, if three beers gets the job done, who is saving more money in the long run — the lightweight or the pompous friends? Just a little drink for deep-thought.

Waterproofness: As far as complete, 100% water-eradicating measures, no. But, this flooring type is definitely moisture-resistant. Would I trust it in my bathroom, around the shower? No. Absolutely not.

Durability: The haters can say what they want about laminate, but as far as it’s strength, it’s pretty resilient. It is primarily scratch & dent resistant AND extremely long-lasting. There’s a reason, among others, why you may walk into a particularly older home, look down, and see laminate, virtually unharmed.

Click here! – Shop Laminate

Additional: It goes without saying that this is an extremely affordable option compared to the other options. Unlike regular hardwood floors, laminate is pretty pet-friendly and installation is quite simple, as well.

Stone Tile Flooring

Stone tile is definitely a fan-favorite, particularly marble. There’s just something about the gentle swirls and patterns that make a room look grand, alluring, elaborately illuminating. I’ve witnessed customers quite literally lose their breath when they walk into an entryway that contains stone tile because the look seriously hits you.

It’s a looker, that’s for sure.

Price: At Builders Surplus, stone tile usually ranges from $1.99 – $2.99. A very fair price when you consider exactly what you’re getting.

Waterproofness: Again, folks, we have a winner. Although, any element of tile is going to be 100% waterproof. It’s still a helluva trait, wouldn’t you agree.

Durability: I’m all for word usage, but it’s tile, y’all. Why waste words? It’s EXTRA durable. And can simply last a lifetime. If you’re like me and absolutely adore the stone look then it’s for you. When it comes to tile, it’s a matter of preference, a choice between color or design, not durability. The next two choices are the same. Phenomenal strength with the capability of lasting a decade.

Additional: This flooring type excels in natural or high-end looks because of it’s appearance. Rarely used in kitchens, but definitely ideal in bathrooms. If you think you’d ever replace your flooring after choosing this, think again. It’s disastrous and definitely more work than it’s worth.

Porcelain Tile Flooring

High. Quality. Honestly, that’s as much as anyone can say about porcelain. I mean, it’s porcelain.

Price: Some may be surprised when they hear that our Porcelain tile starts out a extra-low price of $0.99. Yup. Less than a dollar for some of the finest material ever made. All the way up to $2.99. Not bad for a flooring type that’s solely responsible for the Tower of Nanjing. Never heard of it? Google it. Magnificent architecture.

Waterproofness: YEP.

Durability: Short of a jack hammer, you’re not getting through porcelain. Juggle away.

Additional: Very, very low maintenance. Cleaning will be quick and easy. Perfect for every room in the household, and if you feel unsure about putting this down in a particular room, I’ll give you some consolation. I’ve seen porcelain tile in laundry rooms. Name me a room more mundane than a laundry room. I’ll wait. Have fun with this flooring type.

Ceramic Tile Flooring

Probably your most common type of tile flooring, but that shouldn’t account for nothing. If anything, you should see this is as a tried-and-true flooring type that has greatly revolutionized the above-ground foundation a.k.a. where you put your feet. Beautiful bit of material that continues to stun and amaze homeowners not just across the nation, but worldwide.

Price: Hold your hats, gentlemen and lady folk. Our ceramic tile starts out at ONLY $0.79/sf. Are you as baffled as I am? That’s a crazy low price. I mean, come on now. Blanket your entire basement for nearly a quarter below a dollar per square foot. Whew. Love it, though. That price, and ranging to $1.49. Not bad. Not bad at all.

Waterproofness: Still shaking your head at that word? I know, right? Ludicrous. But yeah, again, water is no match for this tile.

Durability: Scratch-proof, so you can keep your cat.

Additional: As previously mentioned, ceramic isn’t considerably less-expensive than porcelain. Huge plus, for sure. It’s also easy to install, easy to maintain, and perfect for bathrooms.

Carpet Flooring

I’ll be honest with you, I’ve always had mixed feelings where carpet is concerned. I enjoy and appreciate the comfort, depending on setting. For example, in a basement filled with comfy couches, a big screen, maybe a pullout recliner, for some reason carpet sounds much more fitting to me. Soft, feels good on the feet. BUT, there are some monstrous drawbacks to this flooring type.

Price: Typically ranges from $2.19 – just below $5 a square foot, but at Builders Surplus, that also includes install, so there’s another plus.

Waterproofness: Yeah…..no.

Durability: It kind of goes without saying that as far as stains go, this flooring type is a magnet. It’s inevitable, really. Keeping carpet clean is like trying to keep your shoes dry during torrential rainfall. Dang near impossible.

Additional: I’ll state the obvious. Carpet is not to be trusted near any water-sourced areas.

Well, folks, I hope this flooring type comparison has given you a bit of insight, and if you are in the decision-making process, it proves to be a worthy resource. Just remember that popular opinion doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the “right” way to go. Your home, as we so often like to stress at Builders Surplus, is your most important asset. Keyword: YOUR. Turning a house into a home involves a multitude of things, most of them deriving around family and the love shared between its members.

The beauty of the process is living through the moments that cultivate that love within a household. Contagious laughter, heartfelt conversations, congratulatory celebrations, and cherished achievements are ever-lasting memories that contribute to this harmonious transition. Materials play its part in making a house, but it is that glorious, heart-consuming love shared by the people within it that makes it a home. Stay safe, everyone!

In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Chris Chamberlain

Let us help you choose your Flooring style and schedule installation!

August 23, 2017

The Perfect Materials for Rental House Remodeling

Perfect Rental House Remodeling Materials

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Rental house remodeling or remodeling for a flip is a balance. You need to find the materials that will turn your home into an appealing option for buyers, with style and charm. But, you also have to make sure to get the most affordable options to increase your profits on the property. Today, we’ll be going over some of the best options for style, durability and price that will help you turn your home into one that buyers love, as well as one with little maintenance and upkeep. Lets get started!

Kitchen Cabinets for Rental House Remodeling

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most expensive parts of remodeling. We have several great options for affordable cabinets for rental house remodeling.

In Stock White Shaker Cabinets

Our white shaker cabinets are the perfect choice for rental homes. They are super affordable, ready to pick up any day, and feature:

Framed Cabinet with Full Overlay Doors and Drawers
Under Mount Epoxy Drawer Glides
Concealed European Style Hinges
Five Piece HDF Door
½” Plywood Box with Painted Exterior
Glue & Staple or Metal Clip Assembly
UV Coated Natural Interior

Perfect shaker cabinet for rental house remodeling

The quality is superior and the price in comparison is unbelievable. Our customers love them, and we’re sure you will, too.

In Stock Unfinished Alder Cabinets

Our unfinished alder cabinets are a very popular choice. They are a classic shaker style and can be stained or painted any color you choose. They are incredibly affordable and are all wood construction. Want to go classic? Paint them white! Want to be trendy? Paint them grey! Want to go traditional? Stain them a rich espresso. The choice is yours!

Waypoint Cabinets

Waypoint cabinets is a very popular semi-custom cabinet line. If you have time to wait while they’re delivered,you can get an amazing product for a great value with Waypoint. They run 2-3 promotions every month that can save you $1,000 or more on your cabinet purchase. The 400, 500 or Thermofoil lines would be great, affordable options for your rental home or flip.

Countertops for Rental House Remodeling

Countertops are a critical aspect of rental house remodeling as they are are very important to many renters and buyers.

Granite Countertops

Granite is always a popular choice, but choosing the wrong one can cost you an arm and a leg. Then, an installer will charge you for fabrication, cutting out the sink, etc. Don’t get ripped off on granite. Builders Surplus offers prefabricated granite countertops starting at $39.99/sf AND that includes installation and fabrications! That is a deal that can get buyers or renters into your house and keep your margins high.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate is another great choice for a rental, as it’s affordable and there are so many attractive colors these days. We have many in stock colors, ready to take home with you, or the endless style options of custom laminate. The wait is a little longer and the price is a little higher, but it’s still one of the most affordable options.

Tile Choices for Rental Homes

Floor Tile

As far as tile flooring goes, I would always recommend a wood look tile. It is stylish and classic, durable, and affordable. Wood look tile is very popular right now, but it won’t soon go out of style, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it to keep up with the trends. You can get gorgeous wood look tile starting at just $1.89/sf, like our popular Carolina Timber. There are tons of colors to choose from, from modern to rustic.

Wood Look Tile - Rental House Remodeling

Carolina Timber Wood Look Tile – $1.89/SF

Another versatile tile that we carry is the Legend Blanco or Sigaro Dunes for just $1.99/sf. They are large format tile, so they go down quickly. They are neutral and will fit most any color scheme which is important with rental house remodeling or when flipping a house. You don’t want to choose something too unique that it may turn buyers off. These tile flooring choices will work great as a kitchen floor, bathroom floor, or in a shower surround.

Legend Blanco Large Format Tile $1.99/SF

Shower Tile

I think that a tiled shower can be a huge selling point when renting or flipping a home. Renters and buyers feel like its a luxurious touch. I would suggest a large format tile that goes up quickly, like the two mentioned above. Our Ivory tile is a great neutral, it’s affordable, and can be paired with many different mosaic styles to add an extra pop. The shower below uses the Ivory tile and a 1×1 mosaic for a flip property. The property sold in less than 3 days and the buyer said that finishes like this played a large part in her decision!

Ivory Large Format Tile with 1×1 Mesh Back Mosaic Tile

Backsplash Tile

Subway tile – This is always a popular choice for rental house remodeling. It can go with any style so buyers can easily picture their kitchen decor inside. It’s affordable, at only $.22 a piece! There are many other colors and materials of subway tile that you can choose from as well. While it’s a bit more expensive it could add an extra pop in terms of design.
Mosaic mesh back tile – There are so many options in this department, but we would recommend opting for a neutral color and a gender neutral pattern. While the popular arabesque style is so beautiful, it may not be the best fit for a bachelor pad. These are easy to install and there are many cost effective options.

Flooring for Rental Houses

Flooring for rental homes is very important. Replacing flooring can be expensive, so you want something durable that will stand up to years of wear and tear. Like mentioned above, tile is a great choice and wood look tile is very popular and aesthetically pleasing. While solid hardwood may be very sought after by buyers, it’s a little less important for renters. If you’re flipping a home, you may want to consider solid wood if the area and price point supports it, but otherwise, we’re a huge fan of LVT.

Coretec LVT in Odessa Grey

LVT is 100% waterproof and extremely scratch and dent resistant. For this reason, it doesn’t need to be replaced very often. You won’t have to worry about pets, as water damage doesn’t happen with LVT and claws don’t often cause any damage. LVT starts at just $1.79/sq ft, so the price is even more attractive! Laminate is another good option, but water damage can occur and scratches happen much more commonly with this material. Other than tile, LVT is our top choice for main living spaces. Carpet, while more difficult to keep clean, can be very attractive to buyers or renters when it’s in bedrooms. Just make sure you get something that is affordable to replace if damage occurs.

Bathroom Vanities for Rental House Remodeling

You can spend a lot on bathroom vanities without really trying. However, nice vanities are big selling points. If you don’t have much storage then vanity storage is crucial. Double vanities in master bathrooms are very sought after as well.

Bathroom Vanity Material:

You don’t want to penny pinch with particle board construction and find yourself replacing them due to water damage and warping. Go for all wood construction. Even if the price is a little bit more, you will save money in replacements down the road and they will keep their shape and beauty much longer.

Bathroom Vanity Style:

Shaker style is always popular. It can fit a variety of styles and renters will love it. Raised panel styles can be nice, but they will generally fit a more traditional style. Check out our selection of in stock vanities. We have a variety of shaker styles, furniture styles, and raised panel, all for amazing prices that will help your margins.

White Shaker Vanity by Ginger Creek

Vanity Tops:

If the area allows, go for granite. You can save up to 70% off on granite vanity tops by shopping at Builders Surplus, so high style doesn’t have to come at a high price. The term “granite” in home listings will get buyers or renters in and ready to look!

Doors & Windows for Rental Homes

Doors and windows can be expensive, but they will save your renter money on electricity bills, which can be a great selling point. Make sure you shop our selection of surplus windows before looking elsewhere. They are all brand new, first quality windows but for a fraction of the price. Click here to see our selection!

Click here to shop windows!

As far as doors go, a good one can be huge for curb appeal, getting more buyers or renters through the door. It’s your homes first impression. Our Signamark doors are prefect for rentals as they are beautiful, durable and affordable. You won’t be disappointed! I hope this has been helpful and that you’ve gotten some great ideas on materials you can use in your rental house remodeling. Good luck!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

Want to learn more about kitchen & bath remodeling?

August 14, 2017

Home-Design-Trends-Homearama-Featured (1)

Homearama 2017: Top Bathroom Trends

One of my favorite events of the year is Homearama, which comes every July. Homearama is an event featuring many new construction homes, which showcases the latest and greatest trends in building and interior design. This is a great way to see what the hot items will be for the year, and see some of the incredibly beautiful spaces that the builders and designers put together.
Today, I’ll be showing you what we found to be the top bathroom trends at Homearama 2017 at Poplar Woods. If you’re in the market for a new construction home or remodeling your bathroom, you might be able to use some of these great ideas!

Homearama Bathroom Trends:

Freestanding Tubs

One of my absolute favorite trends in bathroom design from Homearama is the emergence of freestanding tubs. You typically won’t see standard tubs in master bathrooms anymore. They’re really only found in kids bathrooms these days. I for one don’t mind a bit. They’re larger than most regular tubs. They’re called soaker tubs for a reason, you can really stretch out and they are much more comfy on your back. They also look like an art piece in your bathroom!

Walk In Showers

Due to the lack of master bathroom shower/tub combos, we see many more walk in showers. The showers we’re seeing are HUGE and tiled from top to bottom. Mesh back tile is featured on the floor, and a mosaic tile is usually used as an accent or to cover the walls.

Hexagon Tile

Hexagon tile was a trend at KBIS and Homearama last year, but I don’t wish it out of style any time soon. It’s a classic shape that adds geometric interest to your space. It looks great on the floor of your bathroom, in small format or large, and can be found often on shower floors or as shower accents. You can see it below and on the two shower floors above!

Herringbone Tile Patterns

Herringbone has also been popular in recent years and looks like it’s here to stay. Herringbone pattern tile can come in all shapes, sizes and materials. We saw a lot of glass mesh back wall tile, as well as some herringbone pattern marble floor tile, among other things. It’s a great look for any bathroom! You can see it above in the accent strip, and below.

Large Format Tile & Large Format Subway Tile

Large format tile, specifically large format subway tile has become popular recently, but we saw it EVERYWHERE at Homearama this year. It flooded the shower walls and surrounded the bath tubs. Large format tile is anything that is larger than 15″ on any side. You’ll see it in almost every shower featured above. Large format subway tile is typically 4×16 as opposed to the typical 3×6. It makes the space look bigger and goes up much quicker than smaller format subway tile and it’s such a classy look!

Wallpaper

One trend from Homearama that I’ve seen in other rooms in previous years has now made it’s way to the bathroom – Wallpaper! It’s definitly making a comeback. I for one love wallpaper, and it can really add a punch of personality to your space. Most of the time you’ll find it in the powder room, although you can use it in whichever bathroom you want!

Neutrals – Cabinets & Countertops & Flooring

The main thing I spotted at Homearama bathrooms this year is the clean neutrals on just about every surface. The painted vanities were usually in white, often in grey, and sometimes in black or beige. White countertops with grey or black veining was prevelant, and the tile in the showers and on the floor were neutrals as well. However, they still managed to pull of a lot of personality! Your colors don’t have to be bold in order to have style.

What do you think about this year’s homearama bathroom design trends? Will you be trying any in your home? Let us know in the comments below!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

August 8, 2017

Fireplace Remodeling Ideas

Today, we’ll be giving you some amazing fireplace remodeling ideas that you can use to spruce up your home! A fireplace is a focal point in many homes, so it only makes sense that you would want it looking it’s best and reflecting your personality.

Ledge Stone Fireplace Remodeling

Ledge stone is such a versatile remodeling material, so it only makes sense that it would be perfect for fireplace remodeling! Ledge stone can give a rustic, craftsman or modern look. The color you choose and the décor in your space will determine the style it takes on. Click here to shop ledge stone!

Geometric Tile Fireplace

Click here to shop decorative tile!This modern style fireplace is fun and subdued at the same time. It will work in any space, with almost any décor and with any color palette. The geometric pattern is very in style. I would definitely recommend you consider this style for your fireplace remodeling project.

Fun Patterned Fireplace Remodeling

Click here to shop arabesque tile!This fireplace is one of my favorites! The arabesque pattern is feminine and soft, but in this neutral hue doesn’t look too girlie. The Darker grey wood mantle goes perfectly with this and really makes this fireplace a focal point.

White Brick Tile Fireplace

Click here to shop brick tile!I am a HUGE lover of brick in every color and in any space. This fireplace doesn’t disappoint. You don’t have to have real brick on your fireplace to get the look. If you’re doing any fireplace remodeling, check out brick tile. It looks just like real brick and can go over pretty much any existing material giving your fireplace a whole new look! Shop brick tile options here!

Red Brick Tile Fireplace

Click here to shop brick tile!

Just like the brick tile above, we also carry this distressed red brick tile. I love the red in contrast with all the white. It’s very shabby chic and gives off the very popular rustic or farmhouse feel. Brick always has a way of warming up the space, so definitely consider this color for your next project.

Large Format Tile Fireplace Remodeling

Click here to shop large format tile!Fireplace remodeling using large format tile is not the most common, but it sure is stunning! They have really made the fireplace feel large and modern by using such large tile in a beautiful neutral color. It can morph to the style of the room no matter what décor they put in it over the years. Click here to shop large format tile!

– Related Posts –

Marble Fireplace Makeover

Click here to shop marble tile!Marble is a classic material that has been used in remodeling for decades. Using marble tile for your fireplace surround is gives a classic elegant look that should continue to give a look you desire for many more decades to come.

Marble Subway Tile Fireplace

Click here to shop subway tile!Like the larger format marble tile above, this is a more modern version of the classic. The popular subway style tile in the marble material is a big seller and a top choice for fireplace remodeling. This looks so clean, fresh and inviting! Click here to shop subway tile!

Modern Neutral Fireplace Upgrade

Photo: Michael J. LeeThis neutral larger format subway tile is such a beautiful choice for a fireplace. It is a color that will coordinate with anything. This is important to consider as you can change your living room furniture and décor many times before you do another fireplace remodeling project. Pick something that you will be happy with for years and years. This works great for males and females alike and has an understated modern look, which I love. Click here to shop tile!

Interlocking Mesh Back Fireplace

Click here to shop mesh back mosaic tile!This interlocking mesh back mosaic tile on this fireplace surround is understated, yet fun! It gives texture and movement, but keeps the color neutral. It’s a playful modern look. Mesh back mosaics are becoming very popular options for fireplace surrounds, so shop all the options today!

Stone Fireplace

Click here to shop ledge stone!A stone fireplace has been a classic in fireplace remodeling trends. Just because it’s not new, doesn’t mean it’s not great. It’s been so popular all these years for a reason. There are so many styles of stone that you can really make it your own! It can go in modern, rustic, craftsman, or industrial spaces and feel right at home. Don’t discount this classic choice if you’re thinking about fireplace remodeling! Click here to shop ledge stone!

Builders Surplus is a renovation company that provides full-service solutions in Louisville Kentucky, Florence Kentucky. Their services extend to Cincinnati Ohio as well. The company is a leading supplier of Ledge Stone, wall tile, and backsplash tile in the three cities. They specialize in interior design, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, home improvement, and building materials. Their clients can avail themselves of free interior design and measurement services. Builders Surplus offers building materials in a wide range of prices, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to high-end Wellborn cabinets. They also provide installation services. Clients who have queries or wish to schedule a free design consultation with an interior designer are encouraged to contact the company.

set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers,

Builders Surplus also publishes articles on interior design, home décor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. They invite readers to check back for their next article and wish everyone a happy renovation!

Written By: AB Updated by TB

August 4, 2017

Bathroom Remodel for Seniors: What to Consider

Today we’ll cover how to complete a bathroom remodel for seniors, or what to consider before starting on this project. Having your elderly or disabled loved ones in the home is very important to many people. To do this requires a bit of planning to make sure that the spaces in the home will accommodate their needs. Here are several things you should consider when planning a bathroom remodel for seniors.

10 Things To Remember in a Bathroom Remodel for Seniors:

Find a Faucet with Levers

Twisting and turning knobs can be difficult for seniors due to arthritis or other conditions that weakens the hands. Plan ahead even if this is not the case at the current time to save money later on. You can find many attractive faucets with levers instead of knobs. You could probably DIY this if you’re handy or you could consult with a plumber if you’re unsure about it.

Install Textured tile

Because tile can be very slippery, consider installing a textured, or less slick tile on the bathroom floor. This would mean staying away from polished porcelain and other polished tiles. We have a brick tile option that is comfortable on the feet, but provides a good grip as well. When thinking about a bathroom remodel for seniors, preventing falls is of the utmost importance.

Add Bath Mats and Rugs Wherever Necessary

Going back to the same point of preventing falls, take the additional precaution and add rugs and mats wherever possible. This means in the bath or shower for grip, in front of the toilet where someone would be pulling themselves up, or in front of a vanity where you can be standing for an extended period. Not only is it safer, it is easier on the feet. A rug by the bath tub can also be easier for a caregiver who may stay on their needs while assisting their loved one in bathing.

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Grab Rails are your Friend

Many people hate grab rails, due to their industrial feel. However, they are quite necessary for the elderly. You can disguise some as towel holders or on the side of your vanity, or by the toilet paper holder. It’s important to have them by the toilet to allow someone to safely lower down and pull themselves up. Having one in the shower or bath is also critical to safely entering or holding themselves up if they are feeling shaky. You can also find grab rails in so many colors these days that you can easily make them blend in with the overall design of the bathroom. We recommend texture on the rails as well. These rails will typically support 250-300 pounds. These rails can also be a benefit for caregivers as well.

Get a sprayer attachment for your shower-head.

Shower heads that detach and spray can make bathing much easier for a variety of reasons. First, you or your loved one can sit down while bathing. Standing for long periods can become difficult for seniors and this would be a great benefit as it means more independence. It also makes it easier if you need to assist in bathing.

Make sure the toilet is high enough

A few inches in toilet hight can be a big deal for seniors that have a hard time lowering down. You can get a taller seat, or a taller toilet in general. This is usually great for everyone in the family!

Walk-in bathtub and Curbless Showers

These are crucial for those in wheelchairs and those who can’t easily lift their legs. When you have a walk in shower with no curb, it can be a much easier process for the senior and the caregiver. Walk in bath tubs are so easy to get into, and much safer, as you don’t have to step higher than you are comfortable doing. They have many options for walk in bath tubs these days, and qualified contractors can install your shower with ease.

Create Soft Lighting

Sensitivity to light is something many people experience as they age. Make the bathroom a place where your loved one not only feels comfortable, but a place they can easily see. It’s important that if they need to grab a bar or sit down, the don’t have a glare in their way. Well placed sconces can often achieve this goal. You could also consider adding high windows for natural light if you’re doing a serious remodel. Natural light is always easier on the eyes.

Make Sure You Have Space

Space is crucial for easy mobility. Whether you or your loved one have a wheelchair now, you could in the future so it’s always best to plan ahead. Wide doorways and an open space in the bathroom that would allow for easy turning and getting to the areas you need will be a huge benefit to you.

Make Sure Everything is in Reach

If you’re installing a spraying shower head, you could choose a longer hose with a lower anchor. Buy a shower caddy for the toiletries so you can easily move them around as needed. A folding bathroom seat stored within reach can be helpful if you or a loved one is having difficulty standing up while bathing.
We hope these tips have helped you when planning a bathroom remodel for seniors!

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Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

July 14, 2017

The perfect mosaic tile shower combinations

Hi Everyone! Today we’re going to be talking about the best combinations of shower tile and mosaic tile to form the perfect mosaic tile shower! Some people choose to stick with one tile in their shower, and while that’s ok, I think that adding a mosaic is a perfect way to make it pop!
When deciding to do a mosaic tile shower, the combinations can be endless, and often times leave you feeling confused. What will look the best with my main tile? What will be easy to install if doing this myself? Well today, we’re going to answer those questions for you! We’ll give you a variety of ideas that you can use in your own mosaic tile shower.

Mosaic Tile Shower Combos We Love

1. Satuary Matte 12×24 Tile with Arctic Cloud Glass and Stone Mosaic Tile Shower

This is such a clean, modern look! The Satuary Matte has movement and while the extra large strip of mosaic tile makes this shower one that really stands out! Find these tiles in store!

2. Cafe SS38 Tile and Basketweave Mosaic Tile Shower

This is a very traditional look, but one that many people wouldn’t think would be a great fit together! I love the detail of the basketweave mosaic paired with the simplicity of the tan Cafe tile. These products are in stock and ready to take home!

3. Eramosa Silver and Highland Park Morning Fog Subway Tile Shower

This shower can be done with the popular Eramosa Silver 12×24 tile and Highland Park Morning fog subway tile. They chose to do two strips in rows of three, which is not what you would typically see, but it looks great! The colors blend so nicely that it is a subtle accent. Find these tiles in stock!

4. White Marble and White Penny Mosaic Tile Shower

This shower design done by Coates Homes, and boy does it look spectacular! You can achieve this same look with our white marble tile and white penny mosaic! Adding the thick strip of mosaic at the bottom is a different look, but gives the view from the bath tub a little something extra! A very high end and elegant look.

5. Carrara Marble Subway Tile with Marble Herringbone and Blanco Carrara & Glass Mosaic Tile Shower

This shower is AMAZING! We saw this stunner at Homearama 2016 and it is probably the biggest shower i’ve ever seen. We don’t expect this to be what you’re working with in your home, (If it is, then you lucky dog) but you can take a style cue and use the same or similar tiles to achieve this look in your own shower. Vertical Carrara marble subway tiles or larger marble tiles paired with a marble herringbone and marble interlocking mosaic will really make your shower one to remember! Adding a cool mosaic to your insert is always a great idea, and if your shower is stand alone, go for a fun pattern on the floor!

6. Legend Blanco and Black and White Pebbles Mosaic Tile Shower

The Legend Blanco tile is one of our best sellers, and for good reason! It looks great on the floor as well as the walls. I recently did my shower in this tile and love the way it turned out! They used a really cool pebble mosaic for a very earthy, nautical look.

7. White Subway Tile and Colored Pennies Mosaic Tile Shower

What a fun shower! Subway tile is a favorite choice for any project because of it’s versatility. It will coordinate with any accent tile, and style of room, any color scheme. They have taken this tile to a new level by adding the colorful penny mosaic! I love the multiple strips of varying heights. It gives it a very carefree vibe.

8. Ivory and 1×1 Glass Mosaic Tile Shower

This shower is modern, yet traditional, with a little bit of fun! The creamy Ivory tile pairs perfectly with the neutral colored 1×1 mosaic! The rest of this bathroom is grey, so it really ties the two colors together. Mosaic is a great way to make your look cohesive. Find both of these tiles in store!

9. 4×16 White Subway Tile with Silver Grey Mixed Glass Mosaic Tile

This shower really makes a statement! The 4×16 subway tile is a hot item right now and I love the way it looks. It gives you the same feel as a traditional subway tile but mixes it up a bit. This mosaic tile is high impact! The silver, grey and black make it a very modern feel.

Which is your favorite mosaic tile shower combination? Do you have pictures of your own shower to share? Post them in the comments! Thanks for reading, and if you have any additional questions about tile showers, don’t hesitate to ask!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are one of the leading providers of bathroom vanities, floor tile, backsplash tile, and cabinet hardware in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

May 23, 2017

DIY: Tiled Shower Surround

A tiled shower simply spells out elegance. It tends to breach the line between what can be considered as an ordinary bathroom to an elaborate one and for a couple of reasons. The obvious one is that it, of course, it just looks better than a vinyl shower, but it’s the very low-maintenance, easy-to-clean properties that sets a tiled shower apart from the rest. Today, I’m going to do a little “DIY” post about how to properly install a tiled shower surround!

Materials You’ll Need for a Tiled Shower Surround

Tape measure
Framing square
Marking pencil or Sharpie
Buckets
Drill and mixing paddle
Spray bottle
Tile trowel (Click here to see the size you should use for your tile)
Sponges (for grout)
Spacers – We used 1/8 size
Mortar – I like premixed
Grout – (Click here to learn if you will need sanded or un-sanded)
Carpenter’s triangle
Safety glasses
Manual tile cutter (depending on type of tile)
Wet tile saw (depending on type of tile – click to see how to use) – This is what we used.

Tiled Shower: Tape it up

Now, it may not seem like it, but you’re going to want to tape some sort of plastic wrap around the shower. This is simply so you can protect your investment and it’s so much easier on pick up.

Tiled Shower: Setting Up A Base Line

Alright, people this is pretty important. Listen up. It may seem like the best thing to do is start at the ceiling or from the tub, but it’s not. You just don’t know for sure if it’s level or not, and even if you take a level to it, it’s best to just stick on the safe side. So, what you’ll do is center your base line. Measure from wall to wall, and find your center. Draw a horizontal line across. There’s your starting point.
Make sure you account for your grout lines (thickness of the spacers you’re using). From there, I suggest fastening a piece of wood at that line, so your first line of tile is 100% level. Get this right, and you’re smooth sailing. Don’t, and you’re pretty much going to through hell trying to back track.

In the event that you cant follow the line of the countertops, you’ll want to measure the height of half of your tile. Now, use your level to make a line all the way across. This will give you an even line to follow. You can either build a small wooden ledge on that line to ensure that your tiles don’t slip, or you can make a point to check that they’re not sliding as you work, and adjust them if they are.
When your wall is tiled to the top of your space, you’ll then go back and make cuts for this last half row on the bottom, next to your countertop. If you have a slight angle, that is something you can cut into the tile if needed. This way, the bottom of the tile may be angled ever so slightly on the edge of the countertop, but the row itself will be straight.

Tiled Shower: Time to Tile

Now, you’re going to want to center your tile on previously fixed piece of wood. This is so you can get your staggering down, from wall to wall. Then, on the second row, you’ll just work out from the center of the tile below it.

Row-by-Row

Go row-by-row on each wall, so you know where you end up on each end. This will also ensure that everything is straight, which by the way, it’s probably a safe bet to get out the a straight level and check your progress periodically. Just for peace of mind.

Trim-Kit Cutout
This can be kind of difficult to achieve if this is is your first time tiling a shower, but once get used to your tile saw, it’s easy enough. This is another reason why it’s good to go row-by-row, so you’ll know exactly where each tile will be. If you’re lucky like we were, the cutout will end near the middle of a tile.

Use Edges
If you’re not using bullnose, you’re going to want to put a couple strips on edging (steel bead, pictured below) along the side of your tile at the very end.

Be cautious of the size that you buy, too. You want the round edge to be flush with the side of your tile, ideally.

Add Mosaic
Adding a decorative, mosaic tile will tremendously enhance the look of your tiled shower. With the process, you can usually start at one end of the other, as you’ll be making cuts regardless, and because of the way the mesh-back is made, this is pretty simple to do.

A Warning
Don’t press too hard on the mosaic. You can thank me later, but it is extremely difficult to get the excess mortar from between the mosaic lines. Like, really difficult. Save yourself an hour or two and press lightly.

Tiled Shower: Clean the Grout Lines

Alright, this is also pretty important. If you did as I suggested and gave the tile a day to set, then the mastic is dry. If you look closely, you can see it in the grout lines. It’s time to set yourself up for the perfect grout job.

Get a razor blade and slice through the lines. Once you’ve done this, vacuum up the excess, and you’re ready to grout!

Tiled Shower: Grout

The lines are clean, and now it’s time to apply the grout of your choosing. Mix it up real nice and float it even better. Now, at this stage, you can throw cleanliness out the window. The stuff is going to get everywhere, and you shouldn’t be conservative with how much you use.

Clean After Your Grout
Once you’ve finished grouting each line, dampen a sponge and clean the surface. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, so you don’t grab grout!

Tiled Shower: The Waiting Game Part II

Let the grout dry overnight. Come back in and wipe it all down. Then after, grab a towel and buff the entire shower walls. This will get rid of that haze that was leftover from the initial cleanup.

Then…you’re ready to seal it in. Scour the entire shower before you do. Once you apply that sealer, it’s a wrap. The dirt and grime that was there will stay there, so be careful. Then step back, and admire your work!
You’re all Finished

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets.
In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

May 16, 2017

Most Affordable and Stylish Bathroom Tile

What’s going on, pros? I hope business is well and thriving underneath the warm weather we’ve been having. It’s about time, right? So, if you have a bathroom remodel coming up then you’ll really appreciate this blog post. We’re going to go over a few of the most affordable and stylish bathroom tiles that we have to offer at Builders Surplus. You can legitimately get everything, without spending everything!

Golden Honey Ledger Stone Bathroom Tile

bathroom tile Louisville Cincinnati Builders Surplus

CLICK TO SHOP!

Ledger Stone has made a major impact in the tile industry, in my opinion. If you’ve noticed, “look-alike” products continue to gain popularity, and Ledger Stone gained its varsity letters before any of them. The one featured below is a fan-favorite, for sure. It’s gorgeous in any setting, but especially bathrooms and, oddly enough, fireplaces, too. Simply stunning. While it does LOOK amazing in the shower, do let your customers know that it is difficult to clean. It needs to be completely waterproof behind the tile or you will get mold.

So, you can get this stylish, trendy bathroom tile for only $5.99/piece, right here at Builders Surplus. Now, this is one of the priciest product to make this list, but for good reason. If you’re a fan of texture in aesthetics, then this product is for you.

Black Penny Round Mosaic Bathroom Tile

CLICK TO SHOP!

I’m a huge fan of contract in a bathroom, and the Black Penny Round Mosaic bathroom tile is perfect for setting up that kind of style. I’ve always imagined a white floor tile with this product used as a backsplash. It’s timeless. It’s classic. And so eye-appealing. Plus, I’m a huge fan of curvature during any kind of design, so this pattern hits me right in the feels.

Right now, you can get this contrast-maker for only $4.99/sq. ft. One more thing about this, though, is its versatility. Where I’m more inclined to install this bathroom tile as a backsplash, it’s fine for a shower floor, too!

Legend Blanco Large Format Tile

Click to Shop!

I enjoy the movement in this tile. And it’s a subtle gray, too, ya know? Not too deep, not too light. Just right. Now, this is a Large Format Tile, so the possibilities are pretty much endless, in terms of install. Personally, I think this color belongs on the floor, maybe with a dark vanity top or something of that nature.

As we proceed, you’ll see that these prices really are unmatched, y’all, starting with this one. You can get this Legend Blanco bathroom tile for ONLY $1.99/sq. ft. Heckuva deal, right? Stylish, moderately-neutral, and all for a good price. Come in and seriously get everything without spending everything.

Portland Beige 18×18 Bathroom Tile

Another large format tile, Portland Beige is another one of my favorites due to its tone and color. But, what’s really attractive about this piece is its price. Right now, you can get this tile for only $0.69/sq. ft! That’s less than three quarters, everyone.

CLICK TO SHOP!

Whisper White 3×6 Subway Bathroom Tile

CLICK TO SHOP!

This classic, tried-and-true still does wonders in establishing that a traditional look. Honestly, folks, what’s not to like about it. Remember me talking about contrast earlier with the Black Penny — well — this is its counterpart.

But once again, the most attractive trait here is the price, everyone. Only $0.22/piece. Yeah, you read that right. LESS THAN A QUARTER. That’s exceptional. Come scoop this up.

These are just a few choices from our vast collection of bathroom tile, everyone. If I’ve piqued your interest, and you’d like to poke around a little bit more, please feel free to head right here! It’ll break our selection down by category, and you can see for yourselves how great these deals are. Hope to see you in one of our stores sometime soon! Until then, stay safe and be blessed!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets.
In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

May 5, 2017

Eco-Friendly Flooring Ideas That Get the "Green" Light

There are many eco-friendly products that are made throughout the world that people choose to buy simply because of its roots, that the product they chose shied away from causing the world harm. Plastic bottles, food wrappings, and now, even vehicles have become a part of the side of consumerism that maintains an environmentally-conscious mind. Well, that also extends to home renovation products, as well! Today, I’m going to discuss three eco-friendly flooring options, including CORK, that are apt in both style and functionality, providing a classically unique look. Let’s dig in!

Eco-Friendly Cork Flooring

This material is relatively new to the world of flooring. Seriously, who would have thought that the thing you pop off to pour champagne or a glass of wine could – or – would ever be used to blanket the floors of a household. Fascinating, really. Anyway, cork is taken from the bark of a cork oak tree, which is commonly found in the Mediterranean forests. The best part about the process is that these lovely trees are not cut down to harvest this material – they are simply stripped. But even then, the bark regrows after three years, making cork a – you guessed it – renewable resource.

For this reason, it is undoubtedly my all time favorite as far as eco-friendly flooring options go. Crazy unique, visually stunning, and truly one-of-a-kind. What’s more is of its chemical properties! It has anti-microbial properties that reduces allergens, is fire-retardant, AND it repels insect. Seriously, though, can it get any better? Actually, yeah. With cork, you’re able to stain it, paint it, and make it any color you want so you’re not so limited. Lifespan of this material? It can last for up to 30 years with the proper maintenance, which by the way, is stupid low. Excellent product right here.

Eco-Friendly Bamboo Flooring

If you know anything about bamboo, you’ll know that it’s strong, intensely durable, and not one of those twigs you can just bust over your knee and walk away happily. Similar to wood as far as its species, bamboo has been gaining wild popularity as a flooring option. It’s very, very easy to maintain, as easy to install as regular hardwood, and will last you an exceptionally long time. Best thing is, it’s sustainable and only takes a few years to reach its full maturity. Again, much like the above, this material is available in a variety of colors, so you’re not limited to just one design or one style. Options are pretty endless in terms of bamboo’s versatility.

Along with its color variety, is its grain! You know how would may have a certain grain you like depending on the direction of it, or maybe the pattern of dark knots? Well, bamboo, more or less, acts the same. This is one of the reasons why this type of flooring is on the up-and-up! You’re able to make this flooring your own, customizing it to your wants and needs.

Eco-Friendly Concrete Flooring

Now, I’ve wrote about concrete flooring before, and I still think it’s crazy (in a cool way) that it has has slowly crept its way from commercial properties and into the confines of residential households. Usually, this sort of material is used as a sub-flooring, in which case people would just put tile or linoleum or hardwood for their floor. But, it’s 2017, and there are all kinds of things happening, so let’s run with the innovative ideas, shall we?

In all seriousness, concrete can be polish and tinted to make it look completely different than your standard slab of concrete. You can create tiles from it or design a cool pattern yourself using glass and mosaics to really give your style the emphasis you’d like. In any case, this material is extremely eco-friendly. No chopping up trees to lay these floors down. No. Sir.

It is in my extreme hopes that this post helped you realize that there are in fact some environmentally-friendly flooring options that have been tried and true, proving to be very sustainable, highly efficient, extremely durable in strength, and versatile in style and design to keep the options endless. We also have one of these materials in-store now at any of our two locations in Louisville and Cincinnati! I encourage you to give us a call or stop by soon to check out our Cork Flooring options and see if this eco-friendly material is right for you and your home. Until then, be safe and stay blesssed!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

April 18, 2017

Eco-Friendly Flooring Ideas That Get the “Green” Light

Eco-Friendly Cork Flooring

For this reason, it is undoubtedly my all time favorite as far as eco-friendly flooring options go. Crazy unique, visually stunning, and truly one-of-a-kind. What’s more is of its chemical properties! It has anti-microbial properties that reduces allergens, is fire-retardant, AND it repels insect. Seriously, though, can it get any better? Actually, yeah. With cork, you’re able to stain it, paint it, and make it any color you want so you’re not so limited. Lifespan of this material? It can last for up to 30 years with the proper maintenance, which by the way, is stupid low. Excellent product right here.

Eco-Friendly Bamboo Flooring

Along with its color variety, is its grain! You know how would may have a certain grain you like depending on the direction of it, or maybe the pattern of dark knots? Well, bamboo, more or less, acts the same. This is one of the reasons why this type of flooring is on the up-and-up! You’re able to make this flooring your own, customizing it to your wants and needs.

Eco-Friendly Concrete Flooring

In all seriousness, concrete can be polish and tinted to make it look completely different than your standard slab of concrete. You can create tiles from it or design a cool pattern yourself using glass and mosaics to really give your style the emphasis you’d like. In any case, this material is extremely eco-friendly. No chopping up trees to lay these floors down. No. Sir.

It is in my extreme hopes that this post helped you realize that there are in fact some environmentally-friendly flooring options that have been tried and true, proving to be very sustainable, highly efficient, extremely durable in strength, and versatile in style and design to keep the options endless. We also have one of these materials in-store now at any of our two locations in Louisville and Cincinnati! I encourage you to give us a call or stop by soon to check out our Cork Flooring options and see if this eco-friendly material is right for you and your home. Until then, be safe and stay blesssed!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

April 18, 2017

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