Q: Iβm trying to decide whether to install carpet tiles or laminate on the floor in my childrenβs bedroom. Which would be better? And will changing the flooring get rid of the current smell in the old carpeting? Itβs been like that ever since we moved into the house a year and a half ago.
A:Β I like the idea of having hard-surfaced flooring like laminate because itβs easier to keep clean. You can also put in an area rug over it that can be rolled up and taken to the carpet cleaners when it gets too dirty. On the other hand, the carpet tiles are the easiest to install, and if one or two of them get worn or damaged, you can remove them and replace them yourself. I have a feeling that the odor problem might have been caused by someone elseβs pet. So if you really want to get rid of that problem, you can pull up all the flooring, get down to the slab, and then paint the floor with a sealant before putting down carpet or tile. If you donβt seal that floor, the odor could come back again.
For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home building and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning “Rosie on the House” radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.
