A guide to vinyl plank flooring

Vinyl plank flooring

A comprehensive guide to vinyl plank flooring, telling you everything you need to know about this easy to maintain flooring solution.

What is vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring, made of PVC, that is supplied in plank-shaped strips (like hardwood or laminate flooring) rather than the traditional squares of luxury vinyl tiles.

What does luxury vinyl plank flooring look like?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring or LVP, is specifically designed to offer the aesthetic of a real wood floor, with designs and colour options representing a wide variety of natural wood finishes.

Now we have explained what LVP is, let’s look at the benefits it offers to homeowners, and specifically to pet owners!

Benefits of luxury vinyl plank flooring

Durability – the composition of LVP produces an extremely durable flooring that offers good resistance to the scratches and stains that heavy foot traffic can cause.

Waterproof – when professionally installed, LVP is waterproof, as an impermeable seal is created between the joins in the vinyl that liquids cannot penetrate.

Low maintenance – beyond regular sweeping or vacuuming, LVP can be cleaned quickly and easily by mopping with plain water. How to deep clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners explains how to deep clean your LVP and what to avoid.

LVP is kind to pets – offering the look of a real wood floor without any of the discomfort for your pets, LVP is a multi-layered product. At Floors for Paws, our LVP range has an anti-slip, textured surface plus a reinforcement layer, and the Pawsafe Domestic range also has a high density fleece backing for joint comfort. Flooring for older dogs is important to get right if they are to remain comfortable for as long as possible and our range has been developed in conjunction with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management).

How to lay vinyl plank flooring

LVP must be installed over an existing subfloor. An enthusiastic DIY-er can prepare a subfloor for vinyl flooring, but we recommend a professional fitter carries out the work to ensure guarantees are not invalidated. Where a professional fitter is used, Floor for Paws can offer guarantees of up to 30 years dependent on flooring type.

Where to use luxury vinyl plank flooring

A really versatile flooring solution, LVP can be used anywhere in the home. Its ability to withstand the impact of high volume foot traffic makes it the perfect choice for use in entrance halls, hallways and kitchens, while its water resistance makes it ideal for bathrooms. The plank shape and size allows for a wide choice of patterns to be created too, and a classic herringbone pattern will always suit any lounge or sitting room.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring from Floor For Paws

At Floors for Paws our luxury vinyl range offers 12 wood-effect, vinyl plank options that can be installed to replicate the look of a solid wood floor or a traditional parquet floor. Alternatively, our Pawsafe Domestic range offers a choice of two plank sizes in either a herringbone-effect finish or a plank-effect look. If you are considering LVP flooring but aren’t sure which colour or design would suit your home, order up to three free samples from the luxury vinyl range or up to three free samples from the Pawsafe Domestic range to help you decide. If you have any other questions in the meantime, our friendly sales team will help via email at info@floorsforpaws.com or over the phone on 01522 300218.

Vinyl or laminate flooring for dogs

Our latest article examines the similarities and differences between vinyl flooring and laminate flooring.

Your choice of flooring in your home will probably be decided upon after you have considered many types of flooring. However as dog owners, it is important to choose a flooring solution that not only satisfies us but is also kind to our dogs. With this in mind, we are going to compare vinyl flooring to laminate flooring.

What is the difference between laminate and vinyl flooring?

There are similarities and differences between the two in several areas, including how they are made (and what from), what they look like, their durability and their water resistance, amongst other things.

What are vinyl and laminate floors made from?

Laminate floors are made from layers fused together through a lamination process, around a central core of HDF (high density fibreboard made of compressed fibres of recovered wood). There is usually a photographic layer that forms the visual appearance of the laminate and a durable protective top layer. Vinyl floors are constructed from synthetic PVC which is heated and pressed into thin layers.

What vinyl and laminate flooring looks like

Laminate flooring is a wood effect flooring, with the laminate boards recreating the look of solid wood floor boards. Vinyl flooring offers a wider choice of aesthetic, supplied in wood- and stone-effect finishes as well as a herringbone or plank finish, vinyl flooring offers homeowners much more choice and versatility.

Durability of vinyl and laminate flooring

Both laminate and vinyl flooring offer good durability, thanks to their hardwearing and protective surfaces. While laminate is more prone to scratch damage than vinyl, vinyl can become dented unless protected against heavy furniture with specialist coasters or floor protectors.

How waterproof are laminate and vinyl floors?

While laminate is water resistant, its wood content prevents it from being waterproof, while vinyl flooring is completely waterproof thanks to its PVC composition.

From the homeowner’s point of view, laminate and vinyl flooring are pretty much neck and neck. But what about from the pet owner’s point of view – which is better for dogs?

Best dog friendly flooring

Dogs of all ages, but particular young puppies and older, arthritic dogs, need a flooring that will help them to feel safe and secure and reduce their risk of slipping. Comfort is also a big consideration – older joints will feel sore when laying on hard solid wood, laminate or ceramic tiled floors and while carpet is comfortable, it is not the dog pee proof flooring that owners need.

Pet-friendly flooring from Floors For Paws

At Floors For Paws, our vinyl flooring offers pet owners that extra something and has been developed in conjunction with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) to be kinder to dogs than laminate. Unlike laminate and other types of vinyl flooring, our Pawsafe Domestic range and our luxury vinyl range, (both available in plank or tile options) feature a textured, anti-slip surface layer, and have the highest slip rating of any vinyl plank flooring in today’s market. They also have an extra-soft comfort layer that provides better cushioning.

To see for yourself, why not order up to three free samples today, or get in touch with our friendly sales team to see how our flooring can help your dogs. Call us on  01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

Waterproof flooring for pets

Establishments welcoming young and old dogs need flooring that will stand up to dog pee, and in our latest guide we look at the most effective waterproof flooring for pets.

 

Commercial premises that have a lot of four-legged traffic, such as veterinarian clinics, dog daycare centres and pet-friendly cafes, need a floor that is hardwearing, durable and attractive (for the two-legged owners!). While a water-resistant floor will cope with small spillages, a waterproof flooring solution is needed to cope with bigger events including dog pee. But, what other features does waterproof flooring need to have?

Features of flooring for commercial premises

Waterproof – as mentioned above, flooring needs to withstand the pee from puppies and old dogs and also be able to withstand regular, deep cleaning without becoming compromised or damaged.

Easy to clean – not only must the flooring be able to withstand urine, it must be easy to clean as it will be exposed to mud, dirt and poop too.

Comfortable and non-slip – dogs of all ages appreciate a softer flooring to lie down on and one that they will feel confident standing on without fear of slipping.

Attractive – one for the owners here! A waterproof flooring doesn’t have to be ugly or boring in its appearance and, for business owners, it is important that their premises are welcoming and attractive.

While undoubtedly comfortable and attractive, carpet is the most impractical and least waterproof flooring for pets. It absorbs spills and will stain easily, and it will provide younger dogs with the perfect chew toy! So what does that leave? Hard flooring is available in four options – laminate, wood, ceramic tiles, and vinyl. Let’s take a look:

Solid wood flooring for dogs

Hard and unforgiving to tender joints, solid wood flooring will soak up excessive liquid and will stain easily. Add to this its slippery surface and the fact that it scratches quite readily, and you can see why this is not the best solution.

Ceramic tile flooring for dogs

Without a doubt practically impenetrable to liquid, ceramic tiles are waterproof. However, they are not pet-friendly, offering a cold, hard and extremely slippery surface to pets.

Laminate flooring for dogs

Water resistant against light spillages thanks to its softwood fibre construction, laminate flooring will not cope with excessive moisture from dog pee and deep cleaning. Moisture entering the joints of the flooring will cause boards to buckle and the floor will become damaged.

Vinyl flooring for dogs

A versatile flooring that can be supplied in a variety of formats to suit the premises, vinyl flooring is completely waterproof when correctly installed. Not only is vinyl flooring waterproof, it is also hardwearing, comfortable and available in a host of finishes, designs and colours to suit any location.

Waterproof vinyl flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

At floors for Paws, our Luxury Vinyl Range and the Pawsafe Domestic Range are designed with discerning homes in mind. Whether you want to mimic the look of a traditional herringbone pattern solid wood floor or you prefer the aesthetic of ceramic tiles, these ranges have something for everyone. Available as planks (the Pawsafe Domestic Range) or tiles (the Luxury Vinyl Range) and in a choice of wood or stone effect finishes, for every room in the house.

For commercial premises – dog groomers, vets clinics, pet hotels – our Pawsafe Commercial Range is available on the roll and comes in a wide choice of wood- and stone-effect finishes, as well as a good choice of colours. With very few seams, this CAM endorsed, pet-friendly flooring is completely waterproof. When installed by our approved contractors the entire range comes with a 10-year commercial guarantee. To learn more about the Pawsafe Commercial Range, head to our guide to sheet vinyl flooring, or for all other enquiries, send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give us a call on 01522 300218 today.

How to help your ageing dog

With the average lifespan of a dog being 10-13 years, it is important to understand how to help an ageing dog.

The life expectancy of any dog, just like humans, depends on a number of factors including lifestyle and diet but with dogs, their breed also affects their average lifespan. The RSPCA quotes studies that say crossbred dogs live an average 13.1 years compared to purebred dogs at 11.9 years. The society also tells us that the second main cause of death in older dogs is arthritis (12.4%). So, as responsible pet owners, how can we help our ageing dogs, in particular those with arthritic joints?

What are the signs of an ageing dog?

• Increased drinking
• Inability to enjoy walks/exercise without tiring
• Difficulty with balance
• Lethargy
• Increased tiredness
• Stiffness
• Limping
If your dog is finding it difficult to move around easily, or is struggling to lie or sit down, he is likely to be suffering from arthritic joints. A vet will be able to give a professional diagnosis and may prescribe supplements to help, and the following can be put in place at home.

How to help a dog with arthritis at home

• Try to maintain your dog’s weight at a healthy level. Excess weight will put added pressure on sore joints.
• Keep everything your dog needs within easy reach. Elevated food and water bowls will help them not to overstretch, and placing dog beds wherever they lie down will help them remain as comfortable as possible, but try to place them away from draughts.
• Consider changing their exercise regime – perhaps shorter but more frequent walks would be better than one or two long walks?
• Dogs who are walking less will need you to maintain their claws. Have them trimmed more often and be vigilant that they do not get long enough to cause problems.

Pet friendly flooring

Smooth, slippery floors present a risk to arthritic dogs who may find it difficult to maintain their balance on flooring with no grip. Hard flooring too can be painful for sore joints to lie down on and may even cause sores to develop. Unfortunately, the most popular flooring options in the home are not always the kindest for our dogs – the best and worst flooring for dogs may surprise you but it’s important to understand what your four legged friend needs.

Pet friendly flooring from Floor For Paws

We have worked closely with CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) to develop a range of luxury flooring that will be kind to dogs while ticking all the boxes for homeowners. Our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Luxury Vinyl range combine quality and style in tile or plank form in a wide range of colours and designs that work well in every room of the house.

Hardwearing and scratch resistant, the flooring has a cushion comfort layer that is kind to sore joints, and an anti-slip wear layer to reduce the risk of sliding and falling. We have also added a textured surface that allows your dog to move more confidently without losing their balance.

As if all the above wasn’t enough, our flooring is low maintenance, waterproof (no need to worry about incontinence in your older pet) and easy to clean, making it pet-owner friendly too! But, don’t just take our word for it. Why not choose up to three free samples from the Pawsafe Domestic range or the Luxury Vinyl range, and see for yourself.

If you have any questions or you need any advice on flooring for your ageing dog, our sales team is available to help. Simply give us a call on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

How to clean sheet vinyl floors

dog owners guide to cleaning sheet vinyl

A guide to cleaning vinyl sheet flooring and what to avoid using on them to maintain their appearance.

Vinyl flooring today can be found in a variety of domestic and commercial settings, from private households to clinical settings and even hospitality. Is the care and maintenance needed the same for every setting? Here we look in particular at pet-friendly vinyl sheet flooring when used in a commercial environment.

What is vinyl sheet flooring?

As the name implies, vinyl sheet flooring is supplied on the roll, just like traditional carpet and is supplied in your preferred length.

Vinyl sheet flooring for commercial premises

There are many features of sheet vinyl flooring that makes it the ideal flooring solution for commercial premises. In particular, sheet flooring can cover an area with no seams, or very few, depending on the width of the roll. This in turn means the flooring cannot be penetrated by water or moisture, rendering it completely water resistant.

Maintaining vinyl sheet flooring

As with LVT flooring, vinyl sheet flooring is extremely low maintenance and requires nothing more than regular vacuuming or sweeping. It goes without saying that spillages should be dealt with as soon as they occur and in general, flooring in commercial settings needs the same maintenance as that in a family home.

Deep cleaning vinyl sheet flooring

The difference between LVT and sheet flooring is more marked when it is time to deep cleaning. Settings such as veterinary practices, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes can experience high volumes of canine traffic and as such are the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria and will require much more frequent, thorough cleaning. As seamless flooring is easy to mop and is impenetrable to liquid and moisture when professionally installed, it is durable enough to withstand regular deep cleaning where necessary.  Simply mop with a recommended cleaning solution or, if you and your clients prefer a more natural option, tackle stubborn marks and stains with a paste of baking soda and water before mopping with a solution of one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water.

Can you use a steam mop on vinyl sheet flooring?

The quick answer to this is no! Many people think that the seamless nature of vinyl sheet flooring  makes it suitable for steam cleaning. However it is not the risk of moisture and steam penetrating the joins that is a risk to the flooring. The high temperatures that steam cleaners and mops get to, can cause adhesive to melt and can compromise the surface of the flooring, allowing the steam to penetrate the vinyl and damage the interior layers.

Other things to avoid on sheet vinyl floors

Do not use abrasive scourers that will damage the surface of the vinyl.

Extremely hot water should not be used – warm water only is suitable for mopping vinyl floors.

Wax products – these leave a residue on the surface of the flooring which can be difficult to remove without causing damage.

Avoid leaving newly cleaned floors wet – simply dry with a clean microfibre mop.

Vinyl sheet flooring from Floors for Paws

We supply sheet vinyl flooring as part of the Pawsafe Commercial range. Ideal for premises that experience a lot of four-legged visitors, the flooring has been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) as it offers excellent slip resistance and maximum grip for dogs that may be unsteady when standing or walking, due to age or conditions such as canine arthritis. The range features a thicker than average wear layer for extra comfort too. For our two-legged customers, the Pawsafe Commercial range is offered in a selection of wood- and stone-effect designs to add a domestic aesthetic to business premises.

To see for yourself, why not order up to three free samples? Or give our sales team a call on 01522 300218 to find out more.

CAM working with Floors for Paws

Read how we have been working with CAM to broaden our knowledge, in order to provide the best flooring for dogs with arthritis.

At Floors for Paws, we are passionate about helping dogs with arthritis to be as comfortable and as mobile as possible, for as long as possible. To this end and in order to learn as much as we can, we have been working closely with leading industry manufacturers as well as with Hannah Capon from Canine Arthritis Management (CAM).

Dr Hannah Capon and Canine Arthritis Management

Hannah, a veterinarian with 20 years of experience, decided to focus on improving the quality of life for arthritic dogs, after realising that too many otherwise healthy dogs were being euthanised because of arthritis pain (in fact canine arthritis is a leading cause of early euthanasia in dogs). Since 2015, it has been CAM’s mission to educate professionals and pet owners to identify arthritis early, and employ multimodal methods of management.

CAM education and resources can be accessed online here or by following them across their social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram) which have a combined following of tens of thousands.

Hannah’s work and commitment have been recognised with her receipt of two separate awards, the CEVA Vet of the Year Award in 2019, and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Impact Award in 2020.

Floors for Paws and CAM

Supporting CAM’s ethos to promote better care for arthritic pets, we have worked closely with Hannah and industry manufacturers. The result is a unique flooring that is kind to animals and attractive, practical and functional for owners. Low maintenance for owners and with a reduced risk of slipping for pets, plus an extra-soft layer of protection has led to CAM’s endorsement of both our Pawsafe Commercial range and our Pawsafe Domestic range.

Pawsafe Commercial Flooring

Supplied on the roll, our Pawsafe Commercial range offers a low slip risk with a softer feel. Available in 2 metre widths with a thicker than average 0.7 wear layer that is durable enough to cope with high traffic volumes, this cushion vinyl is recommended for veterinary surgeries, kennels, doggy daycare and pet cafes. Available in a choice of wood- or stone-effect designs, the full range can be viewed here where you can order up to three free samples. When professionally installed, the flooring comes with a 10-year commercial guarantee.

Pawsafe Domestic Flooring

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is luxury vinyl plank flooring that is offered in a choice of two sizes, 1000mm X 125mm or 500mm X 100mm which is perfect for parquet style, herringbone patterns. Unlike a traditional, rigid-backed LVT, the Pawsafe Domestic range is felt-backed for added cushioning and softness. Ideal for homes and commercial areas such as reception areas/waiting rooms/consultation rooms, the plank flooring has a textured surface to aid traction and is offered in a choice of colours and designs, so why not order your free samples today? When professionally installed, the flooring comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

To discuss any aspect of our dog friendly flooring options, call our friendly and knowledgeable team today on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

The many benefits of Safe Flooring for Dogs

Our canine companions bring joy, love, and boundless energy into our lives. However, they can also face their fair share of challenges, one of which is the impact of hard and unforgiving flooring on their well-being. Choosing safe flooring for your dog can provide numerous benefits that not only enhance their comfort but also safeguard their health.

1. Joint Health Matters: Just like humans, dogs can experience joint problems, especially as they age. Hard surfaces, like concrete or tile, can exacerbate joint pain and contribute to conditions like arthritis. Safe flooring, which is softer and more cushioned, helps reduce the strain on joints, keeping your pup more comfortable and mobile.

2. Reduced Slippage: Dogs are not immune to slips and falls, and these accidents can lead to injuries, especially in older or less agile dogs. Safe flooring with good traction minimizes the risk of your furry friend losing their footing, providing a secure environment for play and movement.

3. Comfortable Rest: Dogs spend a significant portion of their lives lying down. Whether it’s naptime or a long night’s sleep, safe flooring provides a comfortable surface that prevents pressure sores and discomfort. Elevated dog beds or soft mats can further enhance their relaxation.

4. Stress Reduction: Dogs are sensitive creatures, and stressful environments can affect their overall well-being. Safe flooring can contribute to a calmer atmosphere. A comfortable, non-slip surface can reduce anxiety and help your dog feel more secure in their surroundings.

5. Maintained Activity: Exercise is essential for a dog’s health, both physically and mentally. Safe flooring encourages activity. When dogs have secure footing and reduced joint discomfort, they’re more likely to engage in play and exercise, which can maintain muscle strength and overall fitness.

6. Hygiene and Cleanliness: Safe flooring is easier to clean and maintain. Accidents happen, but with the right flooring, cleaning up is a breeze. This is especially important for puppies or senior dogs who may have trouble controlling their bodily functions.

7. Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in safe flooring can be cost-effective in the long run. Preventing joint issues or injuries can save you money on veterinary bills and treatments. It’s a wise investment in your dog’s health and happiness.

8. Versatile Design Options: Safe flooring doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetics. There’s a wide range of flooring options that combine safety with style, allowing you to choose a design that complements your home while keeping your dog’s needs in mind.

In conclusion, safe flooring for dogs isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. It promotes joint health, reduces stress, enhances comfort, and ensures your dog can enjoy a full and active life. By choosing flooring that prioritizes your dog’s well-being, you’re making a loving investment in their future happiness and health.

At Floors for Paws, we’ve expertly combined both quality and style within our selection of flooring that is not only pet-friendly but also remarkably easy to maintain. While traditional flooring materials like real wood, laminate, and ceramic may present a slipping hazard and a less forgiving landing surface, our vinyl solutions are an ideal choice for dogs of all ages. These specialized vinyl options feature a textured, anti-slip surface and an additional layer of soft protection. They come highly recommended by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), especially for older dogs and those suffering from arthritis.

Our flooring is available in both tile and plank formats, offering a wide array of colours and designs to suit any room in your home. Whether you’re revamping your living room or transforming your kitchen, our Pawsafe Domestic Range and Luxury Vinyl Range are perfect options.

For businesses that frequently welcome furry visitors, such as veterinary clinics, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes, our Pawsafe Commercial Range is available in roll format. It represents the pinnacle of pet-friendly flooring, ensuring both durability and aesthetics.
Call us today on 01522 300218 or send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

How to maintain vinyl flooring

Vinyl floors are fuss-free and low maintenance but still require regular care and cleaning. Our latest guide explains how to maintain vinyl flooring.

Regular maintenance of vinyl flooring

To keep your vinyl flooring in the best possible condition and looking as good as new for as long as possible, it’s important to develop some good habits and establish a care routine.

Use doormats – doormats positioned by entrance and exit points will help to minimise the amount of dirt that is brought onto the vinyl flooring, making cleaning easier. DO NOT use rubber backed floormats as these can create a chemical reaction with the flooring that can discolour your floor.

Remove outdoor shoes – removing outdoor shoes will reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets stuck to soles, from sticking to the vinyl. Grit from outdoors can be abrasive to vinyl and can remove the finish, while sticky tarmac can discolour the flooring.

Use furniture coasters – floor protectors under furniture legs will protect against dents and scratches.

Always lift furniture – avoid dragging furniture across vinyl flooring to avoid scratches, marks and tears.

Keep pet claws clipped – long claws make it extremely challenging for dogs to walk on vinyl flooring and therefore pose a risk of slipping. Ensuring claws are kept closely clipped will minimise the risk to your dogs.

Wipe feet and paws after a walk – get into the habit of wiping feet and drying paws after a walk to avoid dirt and debris being brought into the house.

Vacuum or sweep regularly – just as with carpet flooring or tiled floors, vinyl flooring needs to be vacuumed or swept regularly. This avoids a buildup of dirt which will be difficult to remove and should be done daily.

Deal with spills immediately – when your new puppy or older dog has an accident, wipe it up as soon as possible. Likewise, any spillages should be wiped up as soon as they happen.

All of the above will help to keep your vinyl flooring in great condition, but it will need to be cleaned. A damp (not sopping wet) mop is sufficient to keep on top of dust and can be carried out after vacuuming, once a week or more frequently as necessary.  Always dry your flooring afterwards.

Deep cleaning vinyl flooring and how often you do it, depends on the amount of traffic your flooring deals with. Some establishments such as veterinary clinics or doggy daycare will need to deep clean more often than a domestic household, but the process is the same.

How to deep clean vinyl floors

After vacuuming/sweeping the floor, have a look for any scuffs; scuff marks can be buffed out with a microfibre cloth and deep marks can be tackled with a paste of baking powder applied with a soft cloth. Don’t forget to clean along where the vinyl meets the skirting boards – a soft brush with the baking powder paste is enough (a baby’s toothbrush is perfect). When using a baking powder paste, don’t forget to wipe away any traces of the paste.

The floor can then be mopped with a solution of one cup of white vinegar in one gallon of warm water (with washing up liquid added if you prefer bubbles or if the floor is particularly dirty). Keep your mop damp – not dripping wet – and refresh the solution as soon as the water becomes dirty. Once you are happy that the floor is clean, mop with a dry cloth or use a microfibre cloth to ensure the floor is completely dry.

Things to avoid when cleaning vinyl flooring

Abrasive substances – it may be tempting to use a scourer or abrasive detergent on stubborn stains but they will damage the surface of the vinyl.

Very hot water – always use warm water when mopping vinyl.

Steam cleaners – even on the coolest setting, a steam cleaner is too hot for vinyl.

Wax cleaners – vinyl flooring is no-wax and wax products should be avoided as they can leave a nasty residue on the surface of flooring which is extremely difficult to remove without causing damage.

High heeled shoes – high-heeled shoes of the stiletto type can cause serious damage to vinyl flooring by way of deep dents and even tears and rips.

At Floors For Paws, our range of vinyl flooring includes the Pawsafe Commercial range, suitable for commercial properties and supplied on a roll, our Luxury Vinyl range available in stone-effect tiles or wood-effect planks, and our Pawsafe Domestic range, which is supplied in a variety of plank sizes.

For questions about any of our ranges, or if you want more information on how to maintain vinyl flooring, our experienced and friendly staff can be contacted by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or telephone on 01522 300218

How to help a dog with arthritis

Our latest guide to helping older dogs suffering from arthritis, to make their lives easier.

Arthritis in dogs

  • Canine arthritis develops over time just as human arthritis can and statistically, 80% of dogs over 8 years old will develop arthritis.
  • It isn’t just older dogs that can develop it however; an injury or wound suffered at any age can cause joint damage which can lead to inflammation and arthritis.
  • Sadly also, there are certain breeds that may be predisposed to canine arthritis, including popular breeds such as Golden Retrievers and Springer Spaniels, amongst others. In these cases, screening is available.
  • Ensuring your dog remains a healthy weight, and exercises regularly, will reduce the risk of being overweight which can also be a cause of arthritis through excessive weight putting stress on the joints.

Once you have identified that your dog is suffering with arthritis, there are lots of practical ways you can help to lessen the effects and of course, consulting a vet and canine dietary specialist who can offer practical advice will also help.

Easing arthritis in dogs

  • Lift food and water bowls off the ground (there are lots of different bowl stands available on the market). Doing this means that larger or taller breeds don’t have to lower their heads too far which can pull on painful joints.
  • Ensure your dog’s bed is as comfortable as possible and firm enough to offer support to painful joints. Arthritic dogs rest often and having several beds around the home will let them rest in comfort wherever they are.
  • As with humans, exercising arthritic joints to prevent immobility is very important but consider more frequent, shorter walks rather than one or two longer walks. This will be kinder on joints, as will walking on softer ground such as grass, that offers less impact stress than say concrete.
  • Keep claws well clipped to reduce the chance of slipping.
  • When walking an arthritic dog, try to stick to flat, dry ground. This will minimise the risk of your dog losing his footing and slipping or falling.

As well as minimising the risk of slipping while on a walk, it is important to ensure flooring at home does not pose a similar threat. At Floors for Paws, we specialise in dog-friendly flooring solutions that are kind to arthritic dogs.

Non slip flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we have combined quality and style in our range of pet-friendly, low-maintenance flooring. Where real wood, laminate and ceramic floors pose a real risk of slipping coupled with a hard landing, our vinyl solutions are perfect for dogs of all ages. With a textured, anti-slip surface and an extra-soft layer of protection, our ranges have been endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) who recommends them for older dogs and those with arthritis. Offered as tiles or planks in a wide range of colours and designs, our Pawsafe Domestic Range and our Luxury Vinyl Range are perfect for any room in the home. For businesses who experience a high volume of pet visitors, such as veterinary clinics, dog daycare centres, and canine cafes, our Pawsafe Commercial Range is supplied on the roll and offers the very best in pet-friendly flooring.

To discuss any aspect of our flooring and how it can help your dog remain as comfortable as possible for as long as possible, please call us today on 01522 300218 or send an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

What is herringbone flooring?

what is herrinbone flooring

Our complete guide to herringbone vinyl flooring – what it is and how to lay it.

What is herringbone flooring?

Herringbone is the name of a pattern originally created from traditional solid wood parquet block flooring. The term herringbone flooring is often used when referring to parquet flooring as it is the most popular pattern. Dating back to the 17th century, parquet flooring was expensive and therefore only found in the wealthiest and most extravagant of homes.

The herringbone pattern

Herringbone floors were traditionally created from plank shaped wooden blocks but, now, they can be created with block shaped vinyl tiles. Each plank is arranged at a 45 degree angle to the next to create a V-shape which gives the pattern a strong, geometric design.

Benefits of herringbone luxury vinyl flooring

  • Offering the same classic aesthetic of real wood parquet flooring, herringbone luxury vinyl flooring is a more economical option.
  • LVT herringbone planks are offered in a wide choice of colours and patterns.
  • LVT herringbone flooring is hardwearing and, unlike real wood, is scratch resistant.
  • Requiring nothing more than regular sweeping and mopping, herringbone vinyl flooring is extremely low maintenance.
  • It is also waterproof and slip resistant.

How to lay herringbone flooring

At Floors for Paws, our herringbone flooring is installed by attaching the planks to the subfloor with adhesive, to create a more secure hold. The bond formed between the vinyl planks and the subfloor means there is much less chance of movement in the flooring over time. The adhesive will also prevent warping, making it a great solution for areas prone to changes in moisture levels and/or temperature. As adhesive installation is more complex than click-and-lock systems, we advise using an approved installation specialist, which we are happy to recommend.

What rooms can herringbone flooring be used in?

Herringbone flooring is suitable for any room in the house, but its highly decorative appearance often lends itself to use in entrance hallways and reception rooms. In rooms that are free from clutter and not over-furnished, the flooring can be seen at its best. The herringbone pattern gives the illusion of space, making an area appear bigger, which makes it perfect for smaller rooms or narrow hallways. Where wooden parquet flooring is unsuitable for bathrooms and kitchens, the water resistance of LVT herringbone planks makes them ideal for these areas. A good tip to remember is that lighter coloured planks will make a darker space brighter and more open, while darker planks look effective against paler walls.

Herringbone luxury vinyl plank flooring from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl range is currently available in 12 wood effect planks, perfect for creating herringbone patterns. Our Pawsafe Domestic range is offered in a choice of herringbone effect finishes or wooden plank finishes for the ultimate choice, and you can select up to three free samples from each range to help you find the best for your home. And, of course, all our flooring is safe and kind for pets, offering comfortable cushioning, with an anti-slip wear layer too.

If you have any questions about herringbone flooring, send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or give our friendly team a call on 01522 300218 today.