New Floor, New Look

(NAPSI)-There's nothing quite like a new floor to give your home a new look.

But you may want to consider the maintenance required when choosing a new surface, say experts at The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC):

• Carpet requires regular vacuuming and annual professional cleaning.

• To protect hardwood floors from abrasive soil and particles, place rugs and mats at entryways.

• Cost-effective laminate requires regular sweeping, dry mopping or vacuuming to keep floors from becoming dull.

• Ceramic tile is moisture and scratch resistant. Vacuuming and damp mopping will help maintain appearance.

To ensure quality service once new flooring is installed, choose an IICRC-Certified Firm for maintenance contracts and professional cleanings. Visit www.CertifiedCleaners.org or call (800) 835-4624 for more information.

According to The Freedonia Group, an industrial research firm, by 2010, 14.6 billion square meters of carpet and flooring will be shipped out annually.