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DIY Disasters to Make you cringe Part 2

These DIY disasters are prime examples of homeowners throwing conventional wisdom out the window and failing miserably.  Some are a result of laziness, and others, from getting a little too creative.

Here’s our second installment of DIY disasters.

Literal bedframe shelves

Bed shelves can look great—when they’re properly attached to a bed frame.  Not when they double as the bedframe!

This “creative” solution looks extremely tacky and also somewhat unsafe.

Source: http://cdn.instructables.com/FDB/83FY/FMZAIND6/FDB83FYFMZAIND6.MEDIUM.jpg

Paper clips = always a bad idea

Using paper clips to fix your broken drawers is a sure-fire way to de-class your home.  Avoid quick solutions like paper clips, staples, scotch tape, and all other stationery materials in your DIY endeavors.

Source: http://www.planetacurioso.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/cajonera.jpg

Purse Planter?

Finding a use for a clothing accessory other than its intended purpose is certainly creative.  But it rarely works as a design choice.   This purse planter is no exception.

Source: http://pics.davesgarden.com/pics/2011/10/29/Elfishone/feefa7.jpg

Chair Turned Hall Tree

This DIY hall tree almost works.  If the homeowner removes the stool from the picture, the mounted chair backing would stand alone reasonably well.  It might not suit everyone’s taste but it wouldn’t look terrible.

However, as it stands now, it looks like a decapitated chair.  The guillotine vibe that it gives off isn’t cool. It’s creepy.  These aren’t the images that you want to put into your guests’ minds as they enter your home.

The best DIY solutions are the ones that don’t look like DIY solutions.  Don’t ruin a project by drawing too much attention to it.

Source: http://dukesandduchesses.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/DIY_Hall_Tree.png

Bike Vanity

“You know what this bathroom really needs?  A bike!” said no rational designer ever.  Just because it’s original doesn’t make it okay.

Source: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/97/93/fc/9793fc35fe254c191099e239b5d1f185.jpg

DIY projects sometimes fail in their execution.  This one failed in its idea.  Avoid stupid DIY ideas like this one at all costs.  They’ll ruin your room and make your guests seriously question your sanity.

DIY disasters that will make you cringe Part 1

 DIY (do-it-yourself) projects can be a fun and exciting way to add a unique flavour to your home.  Experimenting with creative design solutions can be liberating.  It can also be catastrophic.

These DIY disasters are prime examples of homeowners throwing conventional wisdom out the window and failing miserably.  Some are a result of laziness, and others, from getting a little too creative.

If you’re thinking of doing a DIY project this season, try to avoid the mistakes made in these DIY disasters at all costs.

Overlapping light switches

It’s unclear whether this failure falls under the category of laziness or cheapness.  Regardless, this DIY solution looks terrible and automatically destroys any chance this room had of looking presentable.

Useless drawers

These DIY drawers have officially been rendered useless. Whoever designed this kitchen seriously messed up a measurement somewhere, and it really, really shows.  When doing a DIY project, always remember the mantra: “measure twice, cut once.”

Worst driveway ever?

Poorly placed tree or poorly placed garage?  You decide.

Steps to nowhere

These outdoor steps are just plain dangerous.  This is another example of laziness getting the better of a homeowner.  Don’t fall into this trap when doing a DIY project.  If you’re going do it yourself, do it properly.

 

Don’t Get Floored: Questions You Need To Ask Your Dealer BEFORE You Buy

Before purchasing your dream floor, it is important to ask your Dealer a few important questions. Check off your list using these tips from TORLYS.

Price

The first question you probably have is “How much?” It’s obviously an important question, but it’s not the only cost query you should have for your flooring dealer. Sometimes there are hidden costs for in-home measurements or estimates. Some dealers charge for the removal of old flooring. If you have furniture in the room where the new floor is going, you should ask if there is a cost for moving it if you cannot do it yourself. Finally, if you’re interested, enquire about any upgrades the dealer may offer.

Preparation

You should ask if you have to do anything to prepare for the installation of your new floor. As mentioned previously, furniture may be an issue. Some dealers will move it for you, others will not. A conversation about the condition of your subflooring is also a good idea. Do you need to upgrade or clean it before the new floor is installed? Doors are another consideration. Do they have to be removed during installation? What happens if they don’t open and close properly after the new floor is installed? Whose responsibility is it to shave or re-hang them?

Installation

Most new owners can’t wait for their floor to be installed, so one of the more pressing questions you will have is “When can you install it?” However, you should also enquire about who is doing the installation. Ask your dealer if they install the floor themselves or hire third-party contractors. Are they licensed? Bonded? Insured? Finally, do they have any references or testimonials you can read?

You also need to ask about the installation process itself. What does it entail and how long does it typically take? Will installation be relatively simple, like with snap-and-click plank technology, or will it be messy and incorporate glue and nails? Finally, if you want to do-it-yourself, ask if it’s a plausible option.

Warranty

There is a difference between the warranty dealers offer on installation and the warranty flooring companies offer on their product. You should be clear on who is responsible for what in case there are issues. Reputable companies will offer comprehensive warranties on all of their flooring options. For example, TORLYS offers a lifetime “No gapping” warranty on all of their floors when 30-60% humidity is maintained as well as a trade-in value guarantee.

Asking the right questions about a floor ensures that you’re buying the right floor for your home. It’s also a good idea to make a list of all the possible questions you want to ask before you visit a dealer. Happy floor shopping!

Big Savings on TORLYS Floors!

It’s time for some big savings on TORLYS Floors!

Manufacturer’s Rebate on TORLYS smart floors, Quick-Step® laminates and SuperSolid hardwood.*
Up to $0.50/sq. ft.

April 4th – May 31st, 2016

Now’s the time to find your perfect TORLYS floor! Cash in on the Manufacturer’s Rebate for TORLYS smart floors,Quick-Step® laminates and SuperSolid hardwood* from $0.30 – $0.50/ sq. ft. TORLYS offers beautifully styled and innovative hardwoods, EverWood/EverTile, laminate, cork, and leather floors.

For More Details Please Click Here

TORLYS Signs Agreement with Microban

TORONTO, January 15, 2016 – TORLYS today announced the signing of a category exclusive partnership with Microban International for North America – to include Microban Antimicrobial Product Protection in the production of its EverWood and EverTile luxury vinyl floors. Microban is the global leader in built-in antimicrobial product protection. A non-exclusive licensing agreement is also in place for EverWood and EverTile in Europe.

Floors in moisture-prone areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements, can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, a serious household problem that affects more than one million homes in North America; adversely affecting a home’s value.

On unprotected surfaces, mold and mildew grows rapidly. It has become a bigger problem in homes, especially as we make our homes more air-tight. All it needs to multiply is a food source, moisture, warmth, and time.

“TORLYS has created an innovative solution to help inhibit the growth of mold and mildew at the floor level,” said Peter Barretto, President and CEO of TORLYS. “EverWood and EverTile Elite and Premier luxury vinyl floors will now have Microban Antimicrobial Product Protection built in to our patented CorkPlus attached underlay. This is a breakthrough technology for interior environments – residential and commercial – that will last for the life of the floor.”

“Microban specializes in helping companies implement fresher, cleaner, longer-lasting products and the integration of their technology into our EverWood and EverTile luxury vinyl flooring products seemed like a natural fit. Microban Antimicrobial Product Protection is a proven inhibitor of mold and mildew on a continuous basis. It will provide partners with peace of mind knowing that their floors will carry this protection for the life of their floor, “ said Barretto.

For more information on TORLYS EverWood and EverTile luxury vinyl floors with Microban antimicrobial product protection, visit dev.9dotdigital.ca/torlys/.

About TORLYS

Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, TORLYS is a fast expanding global flooring company that specializes in beautiful, responsible flooring. TORLYS smart floors use the patented Uniclic® joint to create an extensive selection of re-usable flooring in leather, hardwood, laminate, cork, EverWood and EverTile luxury vinyl floors. TORLYS sister brands to TORLYS smart floors include TORLYS SuperSolid Hardwood and Marquee Floors by TORLYS. For more information on TORLYS products, visit www.torlys.com.

For further information, contact:

Leah Robinson, TORLYS

(c): (289) 981-0140

Email: leah.robinson@torlys.com

About Microban

Microban International, Ltd. is a global technology and marketing company dedicated to enhancing high quality consumer, industrial and medical products with branded built-in protection from microbes. The Microban® brand is an important consumer Trustmark for effective and long lasting antimicrobial product protection. Microban International licenses the Microban® global brand name, sells custom-engineered compounds, and provides a range of services, including regulatory and marketing support. Microban International is headquartered in North Carolina with operations in North America, Europe and Asia.

Press Release Source: https://www.microban.com/news/torlys-signs-exclusive-north-america-agreement-with-microban

Spring Décor: Transforming Your Bedroom into Your Nest

If you’re like most people, you love cozying into your bed at night more than crawling out of it in the morning. But you can make mornings in your bedroom a little brighter with some fresh spring décor. Whether you want to make a subtle or spectacular change, we have a basketful of ideas for you.

Fabulous Flowers 

Nothing says springtime and good morning more than bright, beautiful flowers. While having a vase of fresh cut gerbera daisies, peonies or calla lilies isn’t always feasible (especially if you’re plagued with allergies), it doesn’t mean you can’t wake up to a bouquet every morning.

Floral patterns on linens, pillows, and curtains are the perfect way to refresh your bedroom. Collections of floral prints and framed pressed flowers are relatively inexpensive and can change the mood of any room. Floral murals (wall decals of various sizes) are non-permanent, quick ways to enliven the walls of your boudoir.

Bring the Outdoors In

Flowers aren’t the only plant life spring. Add some green, leafy plants to freshen things up. Try an aloe vera plant, they have medicinal benefits and actually freshen up the air in your home. Succulents are also incredibly easy to take care of, all they need a little bit of water one a week. We also love these other houseplants.

You can also add patterns of leafy greens around your home. Lilypad paintings and decorations are especially rejuvenating, and moss is an original go-to. Try making your own decorative moss balls by using styrofoam balls in varying sizes, some glue, and dried forest moss. These create a green and modern, yet calming atmosphere.

Feature Spring Creatures

Nature has its way of telling us that warmer weather is coming. You will not only find birds chirping and rabbits scurrying around your yard, you’ll also see them in springtime décor. Often overlooked, these creatures can be a breath of fresh air in any room, including the bedroom. You don’t have to go overboard or turn to cartoonish depictions of birds and bunnies to create a spring-like feel. Modest accents such as cream colour ceramic birds or larger ones like ornate bird cages with greenery woven around the rungs are unique bedroom decorating ideas.

Don’t forget about butterflies, dragonflies or even eggs. Again, subtle changes are all you need. Oval patterns on bedding and stencil drawings of dragonflies or butterflies will create the airy mood you desire.

More Than Décor

If you’re looking for a bigger project, repainting your bedroom is the perfect refresher. Pantone Spring 2016 colours include bold buttercup yellow, vibrant green flash, elegant lilac gray and soft limpet shell blue. However, you don’t need to paint your entire bedroom to renew it. Painting a closet or an ensuite door adds much need colour to a room and can become a creative focal point.

New flooring can also put an extra bounce in your step, especially when it’s cork. Cork is a natural material and also a renewable resource. Harvested from cork oak trees, it has become a popular choice in flooring for its comfort, warmth, and sustainability. Perfect for the bedroom, a cork floor is the ultimate in spring-y design and décor.

Muted Softness

If these ideas aren’t subtle enough for you, consider some muted variations. Beautiful oak wood features, some white linens, and one leafy potted fan can really create an open, free feeling in your bedroom. We recommend exploring Pinterest for some ideas and to help you get a better sense of what kind of spring décor is right for you.

Just remember to keep things airy, fresh and clean, and try not to make your bedroom too fabulous. We still want you to enjoy the real outdoors!

Professional vs. DIY flooring installation: Hire a Pro or Make it Your Show?

After deciding on which new floor to buy, homeowners are then faced with yet another big decision to make: do they install the new floor themselves or hire the dealer to do it for them?

First, there are three things that you need to be sure of when making your decision.

  1. What is your skillset?
  2. How much time do you have to get your floors installed?
  3. What is your budget for new floors?

You shouldn’t base your decision off one of these questions on its own, as they all tie together in the end. For now, let’s take a deeper look at them individually.

What to Consider When Deciding Between a DIY or Hiring a Professional

Your Skillset

Many people think starting a project on their own will be simple and they’ll have a beautifully renovated home on a budget. But depending on your skillset and the floor you’ve chosen, this is not always the case. If you’re not experienced with floor installation, doing this project on your own can potentially cost you a lot of time and wasted effort.

Besides taking your own skills into consideration, read reviews on the flooring you’ve chosen. Are they typically easy to install, or is professional installation recommend? Take this into account before making your decision.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-install floor, our unique TORLYS patent Uniclic® joint technology makes fitting floorboards together a breeze. Typically, the only tools you will need to install your TORLYS floor is a hammer, tape measure, saw (table or hand will do) and the TORLYS Installation Kit.

The Amount of Time You Have

If you’re rushing to get your renovation over with as soon as possible, a professional installation may be a safer option. Since professionals have to maintain a schedule to keep up with client demand, your project is less likely to drag on for months. Professionals are also experienced, making the job an everyday task that comes naturally to them.

If you have a lot of time on your hands, a DIY could save you some money to spend elsewhere. If you are highly skilled or have friends to give you a helping hand, the project could be finished quickly. On the other hand, if you’re the type to procrastinate or make mistakes along the way, paying for an expert’s work will save you lots of time.

Your Budget

Hiring a professional to complete a project costs money because you’re paying for their hard work and time. If you have a budget set aside for labour, hiring an expert can make your life a lot easier, especially if your dealer is handling the installation. They will come equipped with the appropriate tools, the floors, and the know-how to approach issues that may arise.

If you’re looking to save money on your renovation, a DIY is a great place to start. DIY expenses typically require the cost of supplies (the floors you order) and tool rentals, assuming you don’t have the specific tools that professionals would carry.

Either way, remember to factor a contingency into your budget.

Final Words of Advice

Know what you’re getting yourself into, know what you’re capable of, and do what’s best for you. If you’re still on the fence, talk to a TORLYS dealer . Tell them your budget, and what you’re looking for. They’ll be able to answer all your questions and recommend which floors are best to do on your own,. They may even provide a helpful tip or two on how to do the installation on your own.

Eco-Friendly Bathrooms: Clean & Green

Living in an environmentally-friendly home and in a sustainable manner is a priority for many families. Not only are you reducing your impact on the environment, you’re also improving your home’s indoor air quality, protecting your health, and saving yourself time and money in the long run.

If you’re looking to make your home more eco-friendly, we recommend starting off with your bathroom. It’s the room where the smallest changes can make the biggest impact, and they’re not too difficult or expensive to do.

Here’s how to make your bathroom eco-friendly:

Replace Your Toilet

Using approximately one-third of the water in your home, toilets are the main water guzzlers. Thankfully, there are many different toilet options to choose from to reduce water waste in and to make a big impact.

Eco Friendly Toilet Options

1.   Low-flush toilets

When they were first created, toilets used seven gallons of water per flush. Eco-minded homeowners would put a brick or a bottle filled with sand in their toilet’s water tank to reduce water use, until low-flush toilets were invented in the 1990s. Low-flush toilets only use 1.6 gallons of water per flush, a huge reduction.

The problem with low-flush toilets is that they have the same design as a regular toilet, which means they use water to flush waste. This means that 1.6 gallons of water isn’t always enough, resulting in people having to flush multiple times. This takes away from the benefit of only using 1.6 gallons when, multiplied by 2 or 3, the numbers aren’t so low anymore.

2. Dual-flush toilets

Dual-flush toilets are great because they give users an option – press one for liquid waste and two for solid waste. They make it easy for you to use less water but prevent you from having to flush multiple times. Although they may be pricier than a regular toilet or a low-flush toilet, they save water (and money) in the long run.

Fix Any Leaks

Although a leak may seem small and like it’s not a major issue, it is. A leaky faucet can result in 2,082 gallons per year of wasted water! And that’s just a small drip from your faucet. A leaking toilet, now that’s a whole other issue. The average leaking toilet can waste about 200 gallons a day, just over 6,000 gallons a month, which is 72,000 gallons a year. This waste of water adds huge numbers to your water bill and is not doing any favours for the environment. Look around under your sink and toilet regularly for any leaks or signs of dampness, and if you find something, fix it. Especially before water damage becomes an issue!

If you don’t have any leaks, try using less water by turning the tap off when you’re not actually using it, like when you’re brushing your teeth. Letting the water run when you don’t need it is wasteful and costing you more money than needed.

Use a Tankless Water Heater

Another way to lower energy costs and consumption is to install a tankless water heater. They consume 20% less energy than traditional water heaters because they use an on-demand design that only heats water when a tap is turned on. Their design eliminates the cost of heating and storing gallons of water in a tank.

LED Light Bulbs and Energy Efficient Fans

Switching to LED light bulbs is a simple switch that can be made throughout your entire home, not just in the bathroom. Like most eco-friendly products, LED light bulbs are more expensive than regular bulbs but they last much longer and use less energy, making them worth it in the long run.

And since you’re already making easy-fixes in the bathroom, we recommend replacing your old bathroom fan with an energy-efficient fan. Switching to an Energy Star-rated fan can result in 60% savings over a standard, older model.

How TORLYS Makes a Difference

TORLYS floors are made out of 100% recycled and reclaimed cork and leather and are LEED® and FSC® certified. We make our floors for sustainable, long-lasting and with as little environmental impact as possible. Check out  how TORLYS is working towards a better future.

Luxury Vinyl Floors: Stylish, Sophisticated & So Much Better Than Ceramic

Luxury Vinyl Tiles are the newest trend in flooring, and are much better than the traditional ceramic!

Most modern homes feature ceramic tile in familiar places—entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Ceramic tile looks sophisticated and is extremely durable, but it does have its flaws.

Ceramic Issues

First, it’s cold. Stepping out onto a chilly ceramic floor after a nice warm shower is a rude awakening, and making breakfast for the family while standing on cold tile doesn’t exactly make for a good morning either.

Second, ceramic tile is also uncomfortable. After a hard day’s work, the last thing you want to do is step out of your high heels and onto a hard, stone floor in your foyer. Furthermore, while ceramic tile is incredibly durable, it’s not indestructible. If you drop a cast-iron skillet or the top of the toilet tank onto a tile, it could crack. And replacing that one cracked tile means replacing the entire floor.

Finally, ceramic tile must be installed with grout, which can be complicated. Not only is it messy, if grout is not applied correctly it can ruin the look of the tile. Maintenance is another problem. Keeping grout stain-free especially in the kitchen and bathroom is near impossible. No matter how well you take care of it, grout will eventually haze, crumble or even crack over time.

Alternatives to Ceramic

There is an alternative to ceramic that looks just as good but feels much better.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is the newest trend in flooring—a must-have for design-savvy homeowners. As the name suggests, LVT floors look like elegant ceramic floors but have many more benefits. Warmer and softer than its stony counterpart, LVT tiles are ideal for rooms where you spend a lot of time on your feet, e.g., the kitchen.

Styles

LVT floors also come in a number of styles, including stone and wood finishes. You can mix and match textures to create a truly unique and memorable look. The design combinations are endless, and the best part is your floor will look like real hardwood, ceramic and stone. State-of-the-art technology gives these tiles realistic graining and textures which means you don’t have to choose between beauty and comfort any longer.

Durability

You also don’t have to sacrifice durability. LVT flooring is naturally water-proof, easy-to-clean as well as scratch, stain and dent resistant. Plus, if an area gets damaged, you don’t have to live with the broken tiles or replace the entire floor. Using TORLYS Bulldog tool, you can replace one tile at a time.

Installation

Luxury vinyl tile flooring can also be installed without grout. The installation mess is virtually non-existent and maintenance is easier. Gone are worries about how to restore your grout to its natural colour or stains ruining the look of your floor. Plus, most LVT floors are treated with a stain-resistant overlay that protects against markers, spaghetti sauce, red wine, hair dye, etc.

Versatility

Finally, you can install LVT floors anywhere in your home—kitchens, bathrooms, front halls, family rooms, bedrooms, and even basements. Due to its warmth, durability, ease of maintenance, and water resistance, LVT is one of the most versatile flooring options on the market.

Exceptional performance, exceptional looks—luxury vinyl tile flooring is a fashionable trend that’s here to stay.

Click here to view TORLYS line of EverWood & EverTile Floors

Back to the Future: Upcoming Trends in Home Décor for 2016

Design trends for 2016 are looking ahead to the future while paying homage to a decade that produced memorable fashion, fabrics and style icons.

  • Colour palettes that will have you reminiscing about shoulder pads, Lycra and legwarmers.
  • Spaces that are equipped for cutting-edge technology, and inspired by it.
  • Ingenious designs that do double-duty and feature sustainable materials.

Design trends for 2016 are looking ahead to the future while paying homage to a decade that produced memorable fashion, fabrics and style icons. Buckle up, you’re about to go back (and forward) to the future of home design and decor. 

Bold is Beautiful

Bright greens, moody blues and dramatic blacks will give spaces a glamorous, sophisticated feel this year. In fact, fabrics featuring florals on a black background are making a comeback, and they are not the only trend from the ‘80s we’ll be seeing in 2016.

Neon and clashing colour hues, soft pastels and Memphis-style pieces will be prominent this year. The ‘80s are also inspiring kitchen re-designs in the form of mirrored backsplashes and high-gloss surfaces. However, this ‘80s fad will be more elegant and less kitschy than its predecessor.

Tech Savvy

Our favourite technology is finding its way into our favourite spaces. New York designer Wesley Moon believes that this year’s must-have furniture will be inspired by the sleek curves of the iPhone. Fellow designer Timothy Corrigan agreed, “Who doesn’t want to rub their hands along a smooth, rounded piece of marble? Touch is essential to design.”

Kitchens are also receiving a digital makeover. Top designers expect that a foodie’s favourite place will be redesigned with the digital chef in mind. “Look for areas with hidden charging stations to store devices like phones and tablets so that they are always operable, at hand and charged,” predicts interior designer Jane Lockhart.

While tech may be trending, the industrial design revolution is over according to Joe Lucas of Lucas Studio. Exposed mechanical details and rustic metals, save for black stainless steel and metals, are on their way out. As Lucas puts it, “Enough of looking like we are living in the garage.”

Integrated Spaces

Today’s homes are more open—walls no longer separate vastly different living spaces. Design elements must be versatile enough to work in a living room as well as a kitchen, and flow from one area to another. Flooring is especially important. It must be able to withstand spills in the kitchen, life in the living room and look good doing it.

This seamless functionality is also finding its way into another, unexpected space—the bathroom. Where clutter was once king, plush chairs, benches and living room furniture will now reign supreme. Bathrooms in everyday houses will be transformed into relaxing retreats. A change from traditional tile flooring is also in order if you want to create a personal oasis in your home.

Naturally, My Dear

Natural components are key elements for designers this year. Reclaimed and salvaged woods along with recycled materials will continue to be popular in 2016. Designer Sara Story is looking forward to the Brazilian Modern trend that will incorporate “beautiful sculptural forms and the use of raw materials and exotic woods.”

Cork and marble are making a comeback while botanicals are gaining space indoors. Urban gardens and lush greenery are finding their ways into living rooms and bathrooms. Tropical leaves will be featured on everything from printed textiles to door knockers. However, the key is to mix natural materials with metals and textiles to create a personal, individual look.

In fact, personal taste will be a dominate trend in 2016. If you love a certain piece of furniture, painting or style, 2016 is the year to go with it. Designer and author Jonathan Adler agrees, “The best trend I’m seeing is people forgetting about the ‘rules’ and loving what they love unapologetically.”

Sources:
http://www.newsobserver.com/living/home-garden/article52275655.html
http://www.vogue.com/13380460/interior-design-trends-2016-shopping/
http://www.interiordesign.net/articles/11310-design-forecast-10-trends-to-watch-for-in-2016/
http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/news/g2873/interior-design-trends-2016/
http://interiorzine.com/2015/09/02/interior-design-trends-2016/
http://www.mariakillam.com/trending2016/
http://www.lushome.com/modern-interior-design-trends-2016-stay-go-away/160756
http://www.wsj.com/articles/top-5-interior-design-trends-for-2016-1451423833