We just returned from Shaw Floors industry show in Seattle, Washington. It was a smart decision on Shaw's part to host one of their largest shows at the Qwest Convention Center since the entire floor area is covered with flooring tiles - proof once again that carpet tiles are a practical and beautiful flooring solution.

Carpet tiles prove to be a superior choice to carpet in nearly every way. Beautiful patterns and textures make carpet tiles suitable for every home.

Carpet tiles/squares are one of the easiest do-it-yourself home improvement projects. Two of the largest makers of modular carpets, Milliken and Interface, are marketing their new carpet systems online.

Ceramic tiles come in two basic types, Glazed and Porcelain. Glazed tiles are the best choice for heavy traffic areas and porcelain tiles work well in bathrooms. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive, so consider your budget and the size of the area you want to tile. Tiles also come in many shapes and sizes. For flooring, however, it is recommended to use larger tiles up to 24" x 12".

Glazed ceramic floor tiles have a thin coat of glass-like material fired onto the top side. This coating is very durable, comes in an endless number of colors and a wide variety of finishes including non slip.

For home decorators no other floor covering offers a wider variety of colors, sizes and styles. Hand painted floor tiles and custom colors are readily available.

Hardwood floors have a comforting, solid sound that most laminates can't equal, and they can be refinished over and over again, creating a floor that can last for decades.

Hardwood floors add elegance and beauty to any decorating style and the latest trend in wood floors is hand-scraped hardwood flooring. This old world appearance is in demand with homeowners looking for a rustic finish. The timeless classics include - Oak, Cherry, Pine, Maple Hickory, Pecan, Beech, Birch, Walnut.