FAQ

General Questions (6)

Can you work with my insurance company?

Yes, Ace Custom Flooring is recognized as a leader in repairs and replacements due to accident or other insurance related claims.

We have a deadline because of other contractors, how flexible is your schedule?

Ace is a team player, and we have experience working with other contractors both residentially and commercially.

I am not sure what kind of floor to install?

You reached the right folks. Ace Custom Flooring has experience in all types of flooring and we welcome the opportunity to consult with you to find the right solution.

We found a guy on Craigslist and price is a consideration, your thoughts?

We are a Service Award Winner from Angie’s list which gives actual reviews and is not a paid advertisement. We are licensed, insured and bonded as well as being members of the NTCA (National Tile Contractors Association) In the end, the quality and competitive prices you will receive from Ace is your better value.

I have older wood floors do I need to replace them?

Ace can provide refinishing services for less than you may think.

We have a few loose tiles to repair, is it possible?

Ace has experience in repairing loose floor tiles without removing them, saving time, money and mess!

Hardwood Flooring (3)

Can I wet mop my hardwood floor?

You should never wet mop a hardwood floor as this will raise the grain and may permanently damage the wood’s surface.

How can I restore the finish on my hardwood floor?

If your hardwood floor’s finish becomes dull and scratched you can restore the finish by a light screening and recoat of the urethane.

Do I have to keep the room temperature and humidity controlled all year round?

All hardwood floors can be adversely affected by extreme changes in humidity. During the hot, humid weather a de–humidifier may be required. Although engineered wood floors are less affected than solid wood floors, in the dry, heated winter months humidification may be necessary to prevent surface checking.

Tile (6)

What is the difference between standard ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles?

Tile terminology can be confusing. Most types of tiles that are made from clay or a mixture of clay and other materials, then kiln-fired, are considered to be a part of the larger classification called “Ceramic Tiles”. These tiles can be split into two groups, porcelain tiles and non-porcelain tiles. These non-porcelain tiles are frequently referred to as ceramic tiles by themselves, separate from porcelain tiles.

“Ceramic” or non-porcelain tiles are generally made from red or white clay fired in a kiln. They are almost always finished with a durable glaze which carries the color and pattern. These tiles are used in both wall tile and floor tile applications and are softer and easier to cut than porcelain. Non-porcelain ceramic tiles are usually suitable for very light to moderate traffic and are more prone to wear and chipping than porcelain tiles.

Porcelain tile is a tile that is generally made by the dust pressed method from porcelain clays which result in a tile that is dense, impervious, fine grained and smooth, with a sharply formed face. Porcelain tiles usually have a much lower water absorption rate than non-porcelain tiles making them frost resistant or frost-proof. Glazed porcelain tiles are much harder and more wear and damage resistant than non-porcelain ceramic tiles, making them suitable for any application from light traffic to the heaviest residential and light commercial traffic. Full body porcelain tiles carry the color and pattern through the entire thickness of the tile making them virtually impervious to wear and are suitable for any application from residential to the highest traffic commercial or industrial applications. Porcelain tiles are available in matte, unglazed or a high polished finish.

Can ceramic tile be used outdoors?

To be used outdoors, we recommend the tile must be frostproof and unglazed for floor use. Make sure the absorption rate is 0.5% or less.

What is the difference between glazed and full-body tiles?

Glazed tiles are coated with a liquid glass, which is then baked into the surface of the clay. The glaze provides an unlimited array of colors and designs as well as protects the tile from staining. The unglazed tiles are pretty much the same as the glazed tile, except that their surface is not coated. Full-body porcelain tiles do not show wear because their color extends throughout the tile, making them ideal for commercial applications.

Should a sealer be used on ceramic tile?

A glazed tile is already stain proof, so there is no purpose to putting on a sealer. You may put a penetrating sealer on your unglazed tile or your grout joints. The penetrating sealer is an invisible, stain resistant shield that is absorbed into the surface.

Where would unglazed be preferable over glazed ceramic tile and why?

Unglazed ceramic tile is strongly recommended for most exterior horizontal (floor) applications, interior applications subject to standing water such as shower floors, for very high traffic floors such as airports, train stations, etc. Impervious porcelain tiles are recommended in all freeze/thaw‚ horizontal exterior applications, and even in vertical freeze/thaw‚ applications subject to standing (or in) water.

What type of tile is recommended for kitchen counter tops and why?

Although a great variety of glazed tiles are used for counter tops, manufacturers specifically recommend only specific tiles. These are usually double glazed or glazes fired at higher temperatures, such as glazes on vitreous and porcelain bodies. High–gloss glazes are not recommended because they will scratch under normal kitchen counter top use. Many owners will select these ’high–gloss‚ tiles for counter tops even though they are told “they will scratch,” because they like the look and do not intend to use their kitchen on a regular basis. Vanity Tops: Most tiles are all right to use, except the softest glazes, because of less abuse.

Carpet (6)

I have been out shopping for carpet and every store I go to tells me a different story about fibers and what type of carpet to buy. What is the truth, how do I buy durable carpet?

Every fiber has it’s own characteristic, and no one single fiber has everything. Regardless of which fiber you choose, the construction of the carpet is what makes carpet durable. For durable, heavy traffic carpet you want to look for a dense construction (you don’t want to be able to easily see, or feel the backing of the carpet through the fiber). Shorter pile heights perform better in heavy traffic areas (like entry ways, stairs, halls, playrooms) so choosing a pile height with a ½ of an inch or less will be more durable. If choosing a cut pile carpet, a tighter twist will be more durable than a looser twist. If you are choosing a Berber carpet, the smaller tighter loops will be more durable than the larger looser loop.

I have heard that I should never have my carpet cleaned, is this true?

Quite the contrary. Maintenance adds to the life of your carpet. Carpet should always be cleaned the way the manufacturer specifies approximately every 12 to 18 months.

How often should I vacuum?

It’s best to vacuum your carpet at least twice a week, if you can’t vacuum your entire house this often, at least vacuum the high traffic areas at least twice a week.

What type of cushion should I use under my carpet?

Cut pile carpet should have a cushion that is no thicker than 7/16 of an inch and a firm cushion. Berber carpet and most commercial carpet should have a cushion no thicker than 3/8 of an inch and be a very firm cushion.

What is twist?

Twist is the number of turns put in the carpet fiber or yarn. Almost all carpets have twisted yarns. As a general rule, the more twist or turns on a fiber, the better performance you can expect. Yarns that are twisted tighter have a different “feel” than those that are less tight.

Can I save money by buying a less expensive carpet and putting the best cushion under it?

There is no question that a good cushion is critical to carpet performance, but remember that you walk directly on the carpet so you want carpet constructed to meet your needs and lifestyle. If you buy a cheaper carpet that doesn’t meet your needs, you’ll have a cushion that feels great, but you may not be satisfied with the look or wear of your carpet.

Laminate Flooring (5)

How can I remove dried glue from my laminate floor?

Hardened glue left over after your floor is installed can be removed with Acetone™ nail polish remover or special glue solvents.

Can pets damage my new laminate floor?

Yes, it is possible for dogs and cats to damage any type of flooring, including laminate flooring. Although our laminate floors are extremely durable they can be scratched by untrimmed pet claws. Keeping dogs and cats claws trimmed will help your floor look beautiful for many years.

How can I remove scratch marks from my laminate floors?

For minor scratches in your laminate floor, there are special, color–coordinating pencils that will fill in scratches. By using some common sense precautions, you can help keep your floor looking like new. Use walk-off mats in front of all doorways and felt pads under all furniture legs. Never drag heavy objects over the floor, instead place 1/4” underlayment or plywood down first and then slide the heavy object across the underlayment panels.

Can a chip in my laminate floor be repaired?

For chips, deep scratches and gouges there are colored burn–in, filler sticks available which are used with special electric knives to repair these areas. If the damage to the plank is too severe, you can have the damaged plank replaced without destroying the rest of the floor. For plank replacements, there are special tools, router bits, and wood splines available to make the job easier. We suggest you leave plank replacement up to a professional installer.

Can a laminate floor be installed over my existing flooring?

Laminate floors can be installed over many types of existing floors, such as ceramic tile, vinyl, and hardwood. Let us inspect your present flooring to determine if it is suitable for this purpose. Never try to install a floating floor over another floating floor.