Hand Made Tile: How It’s Made

April 6th, 2012 by Malika

Hand made Tile is truly a work of art. Floor and Decor is pleased to supply hand made tile from Ken Mason Tile, which is made right here in the USA. With hand made tile every piece is unique. Ken Mason Tile says “Tools are the human hand and our imagination.” You know you are getting one of a kind with them.

Ken Mason Hand Made tile is an environmentally friendly company. They make sure to recycle their water. Pigments are all water based.

Some of the varieties carried are: A Premium collection of quality Mosaics, Stone, Glass, Ceramic and Porcelain. These tiles are appropriate for almost any surface. See samples of some of the this hand made tile you can order through Floor and Decor:


Hand Made Tiles – The Process:

  • Each handmade unfinished clay piece is inspected and detailed to insure that it matches the standard of the particular handmade tile being used.
  • The tile is then ready to be hand painted or antiqued, depending on the type of request from the store or customer.
  • After the handmade tile order is painted, the finished glaze coat applied.
  • Pieces are then verified for accuracy of results. All the handmade tiles and or moldings are then loaded in tile setters for firing.
  • Once done firing, color variation is checked on to make sure it falls within an acceptable range.
  • Then the pieces are sealed with clear penetrating sealer, (some finishes require stain in the sealer).

These special tiles can be yours at very reasonable prices when you order through Floor and Decor. Your home is where you spend most of your time. Don’t you want to make it as uniquely yours as possible? Stop by your local Floor and Decor today to choose from a wide variety of hand made tiles available.

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Floor and Decor’s Facebook Page Gets a Facelift!

April 2nd, 2012 by Malika

Our Facebook page is getting a new look! You have probably heard about the changes Facebook has made to their fan pages. This is the new Timeline feature. We decided to take this opportunity to make our page look even better. The new layout gives us a chance to better interact with you. You can even send us messages via the new Facebook page.

But it gets even better than that. You have an opportunity to win big if you “like” our new page. Like our new page at Facebook.com/flooranddecor and enter to win a $500 Floor & Decor gift card. Make sure you fill out the information on the ‘Like Us & Win’ application to qualify!

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Easy Tiling with Adhesive on a Roll

March 29th, 2012 by Malika

I love it when companies make DIY projects easier and quicker. One such innovation is is the invention of adhesive on a roll. Bondera has made this terrific product in order to make the process of tiling easier and more efficient. No special tools needed. No more waiting for messy mortar or mastic to dry. Bondera is a double sided, peel and stick adhesive perfect for counter and wall tile. Just peel, stick, grout and you’re ready to enjoy your new tile.

Bondera is self-adhesive and it repels water. This adhesive is also mold resistant and environmentally friendly. You can even use Bondera in wet areas like showers. Bondera combines three features into one product: tile adhesive, water resistance, and crack isolation.

Bondera is recommended for all kinds of tile: ceramic, porcelain, glass, stone, etc. Slate tiles or tiles with an uneven back are not recommended for use with this adhesive. Once the tile is placed on the Bondera adhesive, just hold it in place for five seconds to secure it. If using mesh mount tile, use a rolling pin or J-roller to cover the entire tile area and make sure it is secure.

Source: design2share.com

It certainly speeds up the process of tiling. With traditional mortar or mastic, you must wait on average 24 hours before you can grout. With Bondera, you can grout within eight hours of adhering tile. In fact, it is recommended to do so.

Benefits:

Quick alternative to mastic / mortar
It’s durable.
No dust. No odors.

Sizes:
Bondera Tile MatSet sizes:

  • Wall Tile MatSet (12” x 10 ft, 40 mil thickness, covers 10 sq ft): Recommended for use on vertical applications such as walls, backsplashes, tub and shower surrounds, or other vertical applications.
  • Countertop Tile MatSet (16” x 7.5 ft, 20 mil thickness, covers 10 sq ft): Recommended for use on horizontal surfaces such as counters and tabletops (but NOT for floor applications).
  • Vertical Detail Tile MatSet (4” x 10 ft, 40 mil thickness): For vertical detail areas.

Note that Bondera should not be used on floors or ceilings. Bondera should also not be used on outdoor or exterior projects. Have you used Bondera adhesive for a tile project? Share your pictures on our Facebook Page.

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Update Your Patio with Slate Tile

March 23rd, 2012 by Malika

Spring is here and just about every homeowner is ready to get out on to their patios and take full advantage of optimum outdoor weather. Is your patio ready for spring and summer fun? If not, we can help you get it in shape quickly with our vast selection of Slate tile. Slate tile is an excellent and versatile material for outdoor projects. It’s popular because you can do so many different projects with it – patios, BBQ’s, pathways, fireplaces, or pool surroundings.

Slate is a beautiful and unique natural stone. It comes in many different sizes, shapes, colors, shades and hardness levels. Another great option is slate flagstone tile. Six different sized stones are mounted randomly on gauged meshmount. Each one of these slate tiles has a natural top finish that shows off its uneven cleaved surface and graining. Each sheet builds off the previous sheet, making it easy to install. However, no one will ever need to know how easy it was to install. This slate tile is designed to have a random, natural look.

See the selection of Slate Tile available at Floor and Decor.

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Casting Call: New Reality Show Seeks DIYers

March 20th, 2012 by Malika

NBC is casting for a new reality show called “Home Transformers.” The television program “will showcase America’s most exciting builders, decorators and craftsmen.”

Live in Atlanta? Casting people will be at the Spring Atlanta Home Show at the Cobb Galleria Centre this Friday and Saturday from 1 – 6 pm. The casting booth will be located in the show’s exhibit hall.

If you’re interested e-mail hometransformersatl@gmail.com in advance. Even if you don’t live in Atlanta and have a blog documenting your DIY enthusiasm, go ahead and email them relevant information. You can buy your show tickets at the door. Are you a contractor or member of the home building and remodeling industry? You can gain admittance for free with a business card on Friday.

Here’s more from NBC on this new reality show:

“We are looking for contestants who can bring different skills and expertise to the table but still have one big passion in common: creating a WOW factor. This competition series will feature amazing craftsmen who will rebuild and transform rundown homes across America into epic and unforgettable creations!” Sounds like fun! Good luck!

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St. Patrick’s Day Decor Year Round

March 16th, 2012 by Malika

One of my favorite colors is green. I’ve got lots of clothes in green, however, when it comes to décor, it can be somewhat difficult to incorporate this standout colors. In honor of the upcoming holiday, St. Patrick’s Day, I’ve gathered some of my favorite green tiles available at Floor and Decor to share with you.

I’m sure you’ve read about how much I love Floor and Decor’s glass mosaic tiles, right? Well check out some of the varieties of green glass mosaic tile varieties that are available at Floor and Decor each day.

There are so many different ways you can incorporate these tiles into your décor. Use them on their own for a solid and consistent look (perfect if you have a lot of color or designs in your room) or you can incorporate them with other tile to make your own unique look (a good choice when looking to create a focal point in a room.)

If the glass mosaic tiles are more modern than you are looking for, check out these stone tiles in green:

This polished eco green split mosaic tumbled marble in a brick design makes a striking backsplash for your kitchen or brings a modern touch to your fireplace. I also like that it has a three-dimensional effect. Don’t forget that Floor and Decor carries many of the coordinating pieces for wall tile to complete your project.

The Verde Porcelain Bullnose tile, has a rustic look that is quite appealing itself. It is called bullnose because of the edge design. I love this tile for kitchen walls. Note that there will always be variations in the color because they are fired products.

Looking to incorporate some green into your flooring in your kitchen or bathroom? Then check out these green tile flooring samples I spotted at Floor and Decor. The first, Spanish Steps Taupe, has a hint of green in it but makes for a visually appealing floor choice. This porcelain tile comes in 6×6, 12 x12 and 18 x 18 sizes.

Another choice I love is this porcelain tile called Gambarelli which is made in Italy. I like this tile it so much, I installed it in my bathroom several years ago. I find this floor tile to be very unique because of the uneven edges, which make it look more like a natural stone. Very cool effect!

Well, there you have it – different tiles to add a touch of green to you home. Floor and Decor has so many other colors and styles of wall and floor tile to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Hope everyone has a terrific St. Patrick’s Day!

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Video: Inside Floor and Decor – Hot Design Trends

March 8th, 2012 by Malika

In this video with Atlanta & Company, a lifestyle show in Atlanta, they take peek inside Floor and Decor Stores. Host, Christine Pullara chats with store managers and designers to find out what’s hot in design trends right now. She also discusses Floor and Decor’s FREE design services. This is an offer you won’t find at other home improvement stores. Our Free design services are available at every Floor and Decor store! You should absolutely take advantage of them!

Warmer weather is approaching. Now is the time to think about improving your patio for those parties you’ll be having this spring and summer. Patio improvements are a hot design trend right now. Slate is perfect for patios. There are over 30 types of slate available starting at only $0.99 a piece. Designer Jasmine, recommends DIY folks give the Saturday classes a try. She says they will love the DIY classes offered at Floor and Decor on all different topics and you’ll be able to handle those DIY projects like a pro.

Another recommendation from Floor and Decor staff is the Glass Mosaics. They are an extremely hot design trend right now. Glass mosaics “are the perfect way to add color to a kitchen or bathroom” says designer Theresa.

General Manager, Alex, shares the 3 biggest reasons why you should shop at Floor and Decor:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Vast Selection in stock all the time
  • Free Design Services

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Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

March 2nd, 2012 by Malika

Credit: www.kitchenbacksplashtile.org

Kitchens tend to be a gathering place in any home. When we have parties, groups tend to gather in the kitchen and I remember growing up as a kid always doing my homework in the kitchen while my mom got dinner ready. Given that the family spends a lot of time in the kitchen, wouldn’t you want to make sure it truly reflects your personality? Backsplashes are great way to do this at an affordable price. There are so many different types of tile available, you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to backsplash ideas.

There are plenty of ways to come up with a unique kitchen tile backsplash idea; Some homeowners prefer one solid color and some prefer to use metal, stones or mosaic tiles. Of course homeowners want a backspash idea that is all their own, but it is also important that it blends well with the overall design of your kitchen. For example, many kitchen counters are now in granite. If you have granite counters, you should choose a backsplash idea that will complement the granite like metal, stone or glass.

No matter what your counter top material, here are some stylish tile materials for your backsplash ideas:

Mesh Mount Tile
Probably the most modern looking of all the kitchen backsplash ideas are the Glass and Mosaics. There are plenty of Mesh Mount tiles to choose from in this category. They come in all glass, all stone or a mixture of both. The mix mosaic has become quite popular as a backsplash idea. It incorporates lots of colors and can create an eye-catching look to your kitchen.

Stone, Ceramic, and Porcelain
These kinds of tile are classic looking and have a broad appeal and are definitely a terrific choice as a backsplash idea. If you are looking for a clean and very inexpensive tile, ceramic or porcelain is your best bet. Natural stone looks a little more elegant and costs a bit more.


Saltillo Tile
Saltillo is also referred to as Terra Cotta. These are bright in color – think blue, green and shades of red. For a burst of color there are also hand-painted accent pieces that can be used as well. When used for a backsplash Saltillo tiles would match well with a solid colored counter.

Floor and Decor has the latest styles of tile available for your backsplash project, whether your style is classic or modern and trendy. If you aren’t sure where to begin, we have lots of displays of backspash ideas to get your creative juices flowing. Part of the fun is designing and picking out what tile you will use in your backspash yourself. Of course, if you are still not able to pick one, our designers can help sort through a myriad of backsplash ideas and find one that compliments your style.

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Can We Pinterest You In DIY?

February 24th, 2012 by Malika

I’m sure you’ve heard of this thing called Pinterest that is going around, right? So, what is Pinterest and why should you use it? Pinterest is a virtual pinboard. Voted one of TIME Magazine’s 50 Best Websites of 2011, Pinterest is an up-and-coming social media site. While it may not have the number of users like Facebook or Twitter, it is growing at an astonishing rate.

One of the things I like about Pinterest is that is helps you organize. I’ve gotten into this terrible habit of grabbing screenshots of things I find interesting, which has left my desktop a hot mess! But with Pinterest I can organize the pictures by category. Pinterest is a perfect way to gather pictures for a home remodel or wedding planning or really any topic.

Like Twitter, Pinterest allows you to share your ideas, interests and make new friends. Got a hobby or a talent? Showcase it on Pinterest. The more dynamic and diverse your pictures are, the more likely you’ll be to get new followers and make new friends.

Unlike other social media sites, Pinterest requires those who want an account to be invited. However, it is rather easy to get invited. You can either request an invitation on their home page or contact a friend already on Pinterest to send you an invitation.

Once you have received your membership, which usually happens within several hours of requesting it, you’ll need to link your Pinterest account with either Facebook or Twitter. Once that’s done, you can get started pinning images. You’ll be given five boards by default, but you can add more and change the subject names to suit your preferences. Then look for those that have similar interests as you to follow and share pictures.

To add boards, just click the “Add” button from the home page. Then you can start pinning images. You can upload images from your computer than you’ve saved, or you can install the “Pin It” which makes pinning much easier. Just drag the pin it button to your bookmarks and, vuala – you can pin with only one click from almost any website.

Based on my experience, if you have a broad topic that you plan to share a plethora of pictures, I would recommend that you create multiple boards from the beginning rather than have to go back and split up your boards later. For example, if you love travel photos, and plan on posting many from your trips or places you dream of going, you may want to separate them by geographic location or type of trip (ie Europe, Caribbean, beach, skiing, etc).

Another piece of advice: Pinterest is highly addictive!

Happy Pinning!

Follow us or get an invite:
Pinterest.com/flooranddecor
Pinterest.com/the_diydiva/

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Wanted: Talented Artist / Graphic Designer

February 16th, 2012 by Malika

Are you or someone you know a talented Artist or Graphic Designer? Have you always dreamed of your work being on display for thousands to see and admire? Then Floor and Decor wants you. Floor and Decor is opening up a brand new store in Miami and has a unique opportunity for you to gain exposure for your artistic ability.

We are looking for two talented artists / graphic designers to use their skills to capture and visually display the true essence of Miami at our new store. We are seeking talented artists and designers to submit their interpretive design concept that will be used in one of two large shadow boxes that will be facing I-95 in Miami.

We only ask that the designs submitted have a modern theme. The rest we leave up to your creative skills to convey what Miami means to you. As they are featured prominently, they will certainly become true landmarks in Boynton Beach, Florida. The selected designs will be seen by thousands of drivers everyday as they pass through Gateway Boulevard on I-95.

The two selected designers will also be invited to the Grand Opening of our newest Floor and Decor store in Miami in April where the winning designs will be unveiled as part of the grand opening weekend events. Of course, the chosen designers also have bragging rights too!

The following are the dimensions of the shadow boxes on the corners of the building that face I-95.
• The shadow boxes are 12’ W and 10’ tall at the edge.
• The ceiling then turns in 10” and up 10” to the beginning of the radius.
• The peak of the arch is 11’4” H.
• The boxes themselves are 5’ deep
• The three surrounding walls are all concrete.

Floor and Decor will recreate the selected designs as a mosaic display using Floor and Decor products. All material to create these pieces of public art will be paid for by Floor and Decor. Please send designs in the form of PDF or JPGs. Hurry – the deadline if fast approaching! All submissions must be made no later than 2/29/2012 to socialmedia@flooranddecoroutlets.com. Ready. Set. Design!

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