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How Do Massage Chairs Differ From Regular Treatment Tables?
Sep 2nd
How Do Massage Chairs Differ From Regular Treatment Tables?
As a massage therapist, you likely wonder which equipment is the best for your business. Perhaps you have seen massage chairs and treatment tables and wondered if there was a benefit of one product over the other. Both massage chairs and treatment tables have benefits, so you will need to evaluate your business’s needs when choosing between these products.
Main Differences Between the Two
There are several main differences between massage tables and massage chairs. First, massage chairs can be portable, whereas massage tables are stationary for the most part. Portable tables do exist, but are not as common as portable chairs. Massage tables require patients to lie down in order to receive a massage. Massage chairs allow patients to receive massage therapy from a seated position. Finally, when you give a massage with a massage chair, you will not have to bend over quite as far as you will with a table.
Benefits of Massage Chairs
Massage chairs have many benefits over massage tables. They are far more portable than tables. Whether you are visiting a local fair or taking your business into corporate offices or malls, you can do this so much easier with a massage chair.
Also, massage chairs allow you to give a massage to someone while they are fully clothed. Some patients are uncomfortable removing their clothing for a massage, even though you handle the massage as a trained professional. With a massage chair, this is no longer an issue.
You will not have to bend over as far when you use a massage chair. This can make it easier on your back to give the massage. Sometimes bending over the massage table creates strain on your back, and this is limited somewhat with a massage chair.
Benefits of Massage Tables
Massage tables also have many benefits as well. Because clients usually remove their clothing to receive a massage on the table, you can use therapeutic oils to help the muscles relax. Also, you will have easier access to the major muscle groups with a table.
Some massage chairs, particularly portable ones, do not hold up well under the repeated strain that comes from multiple clients. Keep in mind that you may have some clients that are overweight, and your massage apparatus needs to be able to withstand this weight. Massage tables, particularly permanent ones, tend to be sturdier and can handle the stress of repeated usages much better than chairs.
Massage tables are made out of one main surface. This makes them easier to disinfect between clients. There are fewer crevices and folds in a massage table than in a massage chair.
Special Types of Massage Chairs
If you decide that massage chairs are the best fit for your business, or if you decide to use both chairs and tables for your business, you should know that there are a variety of massage chairs on the market. Portable massage chairs are made out of aluminum so they are strong while at the same time lightweight. They can be adjusted when you set them up to accommodate patients of different shapes and sizes.
You can also choose a desktop massage chair. If you visit offices to deliver your services, this can help. These chairs sit on the top of your client’s desk or any other flat surface in the office. You can deliver your massage without taking too much time out of the client’s day.
Finally, you can choose on-site massage chairs. These are more durable than portable chairs. They also can be adjusted for different sized clients. If you wish to give seated massages at your clinic, this is the type of chair to use.
Whether you use a chair or a table, you are providing important services to your clients as a massage therapist. Take the time to evaluate the differences between massage chairs and tables. Then you will be able to decide which is best for your business.
Source1 Medical is a medical supplier of physical therapy equipment, massage therapy supplies as well as massage chairs and tables.
www.massage-chair-relief.com president, Dr. Alan Weidner, demonstrates the HT-1650 massage chair by Human Touch on KSL’s Studio 5 Television program. http
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Competitive, Cheap Van Insurance
Sep 1st
Competitive, Cheap Van Insurance
There are many different factors which will influence the cost of competitive, cheap van insurance. Smaller vans are less expensive to insure than transit vans. They are deemed by many insurance companies to be easy to handle and therefore less likely to be involved in an accident. The age of the van driver will also influence the cost of the insurance premiums.
Young drivers, which typically refers to the under 25s, are thought to be a higher risk which can increase the cost of the van insurance quite considerably. Whereas older drivers have more driving experience and are less likely to drive recklessly! It is not only the age of the driver which influences the insurance premiums, the age of the van is also taken into consideration by the insurance companies.
Another factor which is relative to the cost is where in the country you live. Those who live in large cities are thought to be faced with more risks due to such things as the amount of traffic, theft and vandalism. This means the cost of the insurance is generally higher in cities than for those who live in rural areas.
Private van insurance is not necessarily less expensive that business insurance. The key factor is to make sure that the insurance is ‘fit for purpose’. If you are using a van for work then you will need to give consideration to including insurance for tools and equipment, as well as insurance for “Goods in Transit” if you are being paid or rewarded for carrying goods for a third party.
There are a number of things you can do to help get cheap van insurance. Adding a company logo to the van can lower the cost. This is because the insurance companies will regard your van as an important part of your enterprise which you need to continue working with and will therefore, be considered to take fewer risks.
Fitting immobilisers and alarms is also considered to be an effective way to deter opportunist thieves or indiscriminate vandalism. Keeping a van in a garage overnight and adding stickers informing would be thieves that nothing is kept on-board overnight may also help reduce attempted theft. These measures may not necessarily lower the insurance costs however.
Some van insurers will also take no claims discounts gained from cars into consideration, which will further help to reduce the costs of the insurance. Lighter weight vans driven by the over 25s will also make a huge impact on the cost of insurance. Furthermore older drivers who can provide evidence of previously driving company vehicles may be rewarded with further discounts by some insurance companies.
Choosing cheap van insurance may seem more detailed than it actually is! The important factor to remember is to inform the insurers what you are using the van for, private use or business. Also use some, if not all of the suggestions to help lower the cost. Give consideration to breakdown and windscreen insurance cover if this is not included with the insurance policy and premiums to keep your van on the road and you in business.
Staveley Head is committed to provide you with cheap van insurance to fulfil all your coverage needs so you can drive worry free.
If drivers who have taken a drivers education or safety course have fewer accidents, an insurer may discount that. Likewise, some cars are cheaper to repair, or do not get involved in high claims accidents. Those vehicles will cost less to insure. Insurance companies try to use their past…
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Ivory Shoes
Aug 31st
Why you should own a pair of ivory shoes? Well! Why should women want to wear diamonds then? Ivory shoes have irresistible appeal and are very nearly the last word in fashion footwear. Many exquisite designs of ivory shoes are on the market today leaving women absolutely spoiled for choice.
When you take a look at Caparros’ Godiva shoes, you won’t be asking why you should own a pair of ivory shoes. For all you Lady Godivas, this graceful women’s ivory shoe is the prefect evening sandal. Designed with a jewel front and a strap that can be adjusted for a comfortable fit, this ivory shoe will make you the envy of all other women. The design also features an upper that is purely satin and a 3 inch heel for you to stand tall in.
Another shoe that won’t have you asking why you should own a pair of ivory shoes is Colorful Creations’ Andrea. This graceful beauty has a lovely finish that will complement your ensemble. Prefect for occasions like weddings and dinners, this ivory shoe has a lace upper and an almost sculpted to perfection 2 inch heel. The ankle strap of this ivory shoe features a buckle and can be adjusted to fit you comfortably.
Life Stride’s Sable shoes are stylish ivory shoes for the career woman who knows how to take things in her stride. A good shoe for wearing to the office and other formal occasions, these ivory shoes have a comfortable 2 inch heel. The foam cushioned insole keeps feet very comfortable. Flexible polyurethane in the sole and upper of this ivory shoe is great for women on the go as the material makes this shoe both flexible and resilient.
Easy Spirit’s Celinea is an unusually designed ivory shoe. With a closed square toe and mid-heel, this ivory shoe is a good choice for those dress-up occasions. In lovely ivory leather, these women’s shoes feature a strap with a buckle. The strap can be adjusted for a comfortable fit. The handstitched detail on these shoes enhances the style of these women’s shoes. So, are you still asking why you should own a pair of ivory shoes?
Giuseppe Zanotti’s Metallic Leather Slides is all about the style and class of leather. In metallic finish, the design of these rich leather shoes features a knot of Swarovski crystals over a vamp of gathered leather. With a leather sole, leather lining, and leather upper, these shoes have a beautifully crafted 1.5 inch heel.
Anne Klein’s Bridget 3 ivory shoes are in tasteful ivory color. Inspired by the pump, this trendy women’s shoe is sleek and designed with a high heel. Its upper is made of synthetic material. The vamp of these women’s shoes has a buckle ornament on it, adding to the appeal. A great shoe for stepping out in style with!
Such an incredible opportunity to bring your fashion wardrobe up to date with the latest shoe trends won’t have you wondering why you should own a pair of ivory shoes.
www.englishbridalcouture.com assisting you to find designer ivory wedding shoes or ivory silk wedding shoes ensuring you have the most comfortable wedding shoes available.
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The Many Benefits of Memory Foam Single Mattresses
Aug 30th
The Many Benefits of Memory Foam Single Mattresses
Most of us like trying different mattresses before purchasing one we consider to be the best choice for our needs. For those who have ailments, they even try out different kinds of single mattresses such as waterbeds or airbeds. A number of people have been using the traditional spring beds and its popularity continues today. It is the general choice for single mattresses but not always the best choice.
There is a revolutionary technology brought about by single mattresses fabricated out of memory foam that people begin replacing their old ones with these. In general, people replace their single mattresses after using them for five to seven years. Memory foam single mattresses rose to fame because of their ability to alleviate sleeping disorders. Memory foam is also a good alternative for single mattresses for people who have a case of the allergies. Nevertheless, changing your single mattresses to one made from memory foam needs some getting used to. It might take a while for a person to adjust but it is quite worth it for a good night’s rest.
The traditional spring mattresses have the tendency of losing their shape after a span of two years or so. This may result in pain brought about by certain sections of the bed. Even a spring bed which is in pristine condition can become useless after a couple of years due to low durability. These beds are indeed cheaper and you get your money’s worth. Now, memory foam single mattresses are an investment but considering their lifespan, they are the wiser and more cost-effective choice. Not to mention they provide you with a better sleeping surface that can benefit you in the long run. No more back aches and what not. This is the primary benefit of these.
When purchasing memory foam single mattresses, you should consider that they are different from the traditional spring beds you are used to in terms of the way it is manufactured and the materials being used in the process. This is why some adjustment is inevitable in the early days following your move to a memory foam mattress. Initially, you will encounter some resistance in the beginning. Memory foam single mattresses are beneficial for people who have regular episodes of body pains and aches. This is because the single mattresses take the shape of your body. By following the contour of the body, these single mattresses eliminate the pressure points from a person lying down on a flat surface. The spinal cord is realigned as the foam conforms to your body’s shape. There are proven positive health benefits of using a memory foam mattress attributed to the product’s success as well. It is often asked if memory foam is advisable even for children. The important thing is to let the child know how the memory foam works so that he or she is not surprised by the different sensation brought about as the foam changes form when it is reshaped according to the body’s dimensions.
Get the comfortable memory foam mattress king, memory foam mattress single and three quarter beds. Buy single mattresses, divan beds uk and visco elastic foam mattress online at http://www.memoryfoammattresszleeps.co.uk/
Debt Issues: Welcome to Iva Uk
Aug 29th
Debt Issues: Welcome to Iva Uk
When asking prospective clients in the UK if they have ever been in an IVA the most common response I get is ‘what’s an IVA?’
20 years ago in 1986 the insolvency act introduced the IVA. IVA stands for Individual Voluntary Arrangement A formal, it is court ratified, process that allows somebody struggling with unsecured debts to make a payment proposal to their creditors.
IVA numbers are increasing dramatically at the time of writing. A record number of people in England and Wales went insolvent between July and September 2006. The Insolvency Service said 27,644 people went bankrupt or entered into Individual Voluntary Arrangements to manage their debts.
Why are IVA’s proving to be ‘popular’?
Creditors like them because it can often provide greater returns than would normally be realised if the debtor went bankrupt.
Debtors like to make use of an IVA because it freezes interest on debts, it makes the payments more manageable, it protects their home, it is a very discreet debt solution (unlike bankruptcy) and allows company directors to retain their position.
After a period of normally 60 monthly payments, any outstanding amounts of unsecured debts included in the IVA are written off.
That sounds great, how do I organise an IVA?
Well initially your unsecured debts need to be in excess of £15,000. If you have more than £15,000 of unsecured debts and are struggling with debt repayments then it’s time to talk to a professional.
Only qualified professionals can administer an IVA. This is usually an insolvency practitioner but there are a number of firms that have sprung up to effectively ‘package’ an IVA ready for the insolvency practitioners to complete the IVA. The insolvency practitioner then becomes the trustee for the IVA.
To get an IVA agreed, a clear statement of your financial position will need to be drawn up. This will include all assets (house(s), cars, endowment policies, cash plans, pension details, etc) and then details of your monthly income and expenditure.
All these details are put to your creditors along with a proposed monthly payment.
What about my house?
Importantly, if you own your own home, then any equity you have available in the property will form part of the IVA proposal as part of the repayment offer. A secured charge is applied to your property equivalent to the proposal put to the creditors. The charge is normally applied to your property during the first year of the IVA and normally realised in the fourth year of the IVA.
If the property is jointly owned then only the debtors share of equity is normally considered under the IVA.
So what happens when the creditors vote on my IVA?
The creditors vote on whether to accept the IVA proposal or not. If more than 75% by value of unsecured creditors vote in favour of the IVA then it has to be accepted by all the unsecured creditors.
What do you mean more than 75% by value?
Well if you have 4 creditors but say one of them is owed 76% of your total amount of unsecured debts then it is only their vote that counts. If they accept the IVA proposal then the others will have to accept payments. Equally, if the 76% creditor declines the IVA proposal then the whole proposal has been rejected.
What happens if my IVA is rejected?
Well first thing, remain calm. There is an opportunity to submit an improved IVA proposal if your funds allow. Failing that it may be time to consider an informal payment plan or perhaps even bankruptcy. This is best discussed with a debt help and advice professional.
What if I miss any of my IVA payments?
A well drawn up IVA will allow for one or two missed payments in the IVA but missing payments is a serious business. The IVA is a court ratified agreement. Missing payments in an IVA runs the real risk that the trustee will legally have to force you into bankruptcy.
What happens to the IVA if my circumstances alter?
If your circumstances alter then this needs to be reflected in your IVA. That means should your income fall then the repayments should also be reduced. Equally, where your income improves then more money will be made available each month to your creditors.
Well I made it to the end of my IVA, what now?
The trustee will issue a ‘Statement of Completion’ normally within 3 months of the last payment of the IVA. The trustee will also notify the Insolvency Service and reflect this in their records.
Finally, do be aware and get proper IVA advice.
Do sit down and get an experienced professional to go through everything in detail. Be aware of all the factors that will affect you if you decide to enter into an IVA. Whilst this article is accurate, it cannot be used to replace advice from a professional organisation.
Ed Pearson is a Debt Dr. Debt Dr specialise in debt help and advice for individuals and small businesses. Ed can be contacted on 0845 123 4000 or in confidence on 07970 659266.
http://www.debtDr.co.uk ‘prescribing life without debt’
This article does not constitute regulated advice. Please remember that any action regarding financial advice should always be taken only after considering the specifics of your own situation.
To find out more about Ed try, http://www.ecademy.com/account.php?id=41788
Ed Pearson is a Debt Dr. Debt Dr specialise in debt help and advice for individuals and small businesses. Ed can be contacted on 0845 123 4000 or in confidence on 07970 659266.
This article does not constitute regulated advice. Please remember that any action regarding financial advice should always be taken only after considering the specifics of your own situation.
Why You Need Vertical Radiators
Aug 28th
Why You Need Vertical Radiators
Vertical radiators are one of the most convenient varieties of radiators. Well, the advantage of vertical radiators is obvious. They take much less space. Even if you do not plan to install them in a congested room, why crowd your surroundings with the presence of a heavy and unattractive looking radiator, which you will have a hard time placing in the right spot. Not only do vertical radiators occupy very little space, but they can also potentially help you to save some more space depending on the type and design that you are using. Vertical radiators in the shape of, say, a towel rail or a vertical mirror, add to the benefits you thought you could extract out of a radiator.
Vertical radiators are probably the best choices for all kinds of users. Whether you are looking for a radiator for your workplace or for your home, you can find vertical radiators in enough variety and with sufficient efficiency to cater for all your needs.
Vertical radiators are also popular because of their pleasant appearance and style. They come in a variety of shapes, colors and materials, while covering as little space as possible, as they are mostly installed neatly alongside a wall. This prevents the space of your room from being occupied irritatingly by a radiator, but actually offers you the pleasure of admiring a stylish addition to your décor, which would be reflective of your aesthetic sense. People are not uncomfortable when it comes to selecting radiators because of their unpleasant appearance anymore; instead people now look forward to explore how creative they can be with their selection. Vertical radiators are one of the best choices when it comes to adding value to your home décor.
Vertical radiators are available in a great variety with different designs, such as metallic flat panel bars, stainless steel bars, tubular types, mirror types, plain black, traditional or vintage, modern, smooth panel and compact. Vertical radiators are also available in their designer variations in different patterns, color and shapes, which offer you to fancy something more stylish for your surroundings.
With benefits like occupying very little space, having multiple utilities and proving to be an eye-catching addition to your surroundings, vertical radiators are the primary choices of those searching for an efficient and attractive heating system. If you are planning to purchase a new heating device as well, then probably vertical radiators are just what you are looking for.
Author writes for Vertical radiators, radiators and towel warmers.
21st Century Fin Convector Radiators Inovation. •Sculptural modular energy efficient fin radiator technology. •Award. Eco Build 2009 for Sustainability in construction. UK. •Modular Sculptural System. •Tested to EN442 Standards. •The only Externally Finned radiator in the world to operate efficiently in the vertical position. •Produces 15% more heat than nearest rival, there is no radiator to compare to in the vertical position. •Can be adapted to any architectural landscape. •Manufacturing costing completed, please contact for further details. www.ctradiators.co.uk
Futons: your Home’s Greatest Accent
Aug 27th
Futons: your Home’s Greatest Accent
Dare to be different? Looking for comfort and style that actually works for daily life? Millions are discovering revolutionary futon furniture, the modern alternative to conventional sleeper-sofas.
The futon is a lot more than the previously dubbed spare room, TV room accoutrement. This newly transformed space saver has a new audience appeal in the young and old alike. Not only is this modern day marvel inexpensive but it is quality-made, durable futon furniture and is available in a range of styles to fit any budget and decor, giving you a real value for your home furnishing’s dollar.
The designs of futons have evolved over the years. Theyâre using more streamline designs, for a contemporary and modern feel. This ultra stylish, and functional both for you budget and life style also comes with an additional edge that is unsurpassable allowing it to be in a class of its own. Futons are great for your back. Due to the fact that most futons are constructed with slats, and a cotton mattress, usually 3 â 6 inches thick. This causes the futon mattress to be slightly firmer than a standard bed mattress. The health implication here is that of a firmer mattress, which allows your spine to keep a straighter posture. Most futons are also made with natural or organic fibers, which provide better insulation, keeping you warmer at night as you sleep.
Futons, having the ability to transform itself from a couch to a bed, reduce the need to purchase extra (and in many cases, needless) furniture. Futons also need far less flipping than standard bed mattresses. On the rare occasions when you might feel the need to flip a futon mattress, they are lighter, and easier than their competitors. This feature also makes futons a breeze to clean. These convenience factors are the main reasons why so many home owners are opting to include a futon in their house.
By now we can all agree that futons are practical, convenient and affordable, but what more would a futon buyer need to focus on? The main three items that all interested parties should be concerned about whether you are purchasing a factory made futon or designing your own custom futon would be the frame, mattress and cover.
The futon frame is the foundation of a futon; it can come in different forms and can be made out of wood or metal. Regardless of the material your futon should be sturdy and easy to use, because the right frame will increase the beauty of your home.
Your futon mattress is arguably the most important component of your futon sofa. Unfortunately, it can also be the most overlooked component. The mattress is enhances the comfort factor of your futon. As in many things that we have in our society, price does pay a factor, so when focusing on the mattress you definitely want to get as close to the high end as your budget would allow.
Your futon is not complete without a futon cover. Futon covers are removable which means you can wash them or replace them with new covers whenever you want. If you love to change the atmosphere of your home you can purchase different futon covers and patterns to create your feel good room. Your futon cover fits around the entire cushion like a duvet. Helping to creating the feel and want you desire in your home
One last thing to remember about futons is that futon beds, unlike traditional futons do not convert to couches, but do provide the same comfort. You can never go wrong with a futon!
Georgia Silver is a decorator and technical writer on
Futons and
Futon Mattresses for AB Futon.
Johnson Brothers Bowl For All Season
Aug 26th
Johnson Brothers Bowl For All Season
Don’t you know that Johnson Brothers is really great in making fine China Pieces? Their collections are not just good because of its durability but the brand is very well known for its designs. The company has started as a family business in Europe and it expanded into a great company. Soon, after years, their products were exported to US and other European countries enthusiasts.
You wouldn’t believe that the Vintage collections of Johnson Brothers still live during this era. Who wouldn’t want to own a beautiful John Brothers Bowl that is very richly designed and glazed? If you look at their sugar bowls, you would surely want to flaunt them. You would also love their serving bowls and even their cereal bowls.
If you want a more versatile collection of Bowls and other dinnerware, get something vintage. You will love their vintage collections such as the Blue Willow and Old Britain Castles. Once you have the plates, you would continue collecting the whole set. They are all beautiful, rich and detailed and very well glazed. They are the type of collections that you want to display in a glass cabinet.
Getting those more intricately designed vintage bowls and platters of John Brothers would surely get you a long lasting design. These are the bowls that would last a lifetime. Unlike those modern and contemporary designed dinnerware nowadays, they would just last for a couple of years. The reason is because modern designs change often. With a vintage looking bowls, you are sure that it wouldn’t be out of fashion.
Because of the beauty of Johnson Brothers dinnerware, many art enthusiasts and China collectors search out this particular brand of dinnerware. No one could blame those collectors Johnson Brothers Collections are really great and very nice to use and even just to look at.
Ottoman Beds For A Comfy And Relaxed Feeling
Aug 25th
Ottoman Beds For A Comfy And Relaxed Feeling
Having a huge bed is always good. But how good the bed would serve depends on what kind of bed you choose. Among the various varieties in bed furniture, you would have come across Ottoman beds as on of the kinds under beds category. So what are these ottoman beds and how good are they in providing the comfort you looking for?
Ottoman beds offer an ingenious solution to the age old problem of storage in your home. It does not have drawers or cabinets, but adopting the same concept as an ottoman footstool, the bed is hinged at the top with storage space underneath. You might wonder how it is possible to lift the heavy mattress and that it is inconvenient to do so every time you would like to access the space but that is not the case. Ottoman beds are designed such that it has an easy inbuilt operating mechanism of hydraulic lifts that effortlessly lifts up the frame from the bottom of the bed. Not only that but it also holds the mattress on the board tight.
The bed’s hollow base offers a huge amount of storage area. This is great for apartment living with limited space. Even if you have plenty of space, the ottoman bed storage is perfect to keep your home uncluttered. These kinds of beds are available in wood and leather finishes and in all sizes.
The storage section is generally single or divided in two half and can store your extra bulky bedding. It is also perfect for storing bulky items such as exercising equipments. If you have small room where having to pull out drawers and cabinet might utilize the little free space you have got then ottoman bed is your best solution. With ottoman you can store without reveling the storage space to others. They are ideal for guest room if you do not wish to display them the storage areas ands bother them with the pulling and pushing.
What’s more? The best part of ottoman beds is that it not only provides good storage but also comfort to you at sleep. It’s a clever design utilizing the area underneath your bed, which goes for waste most of the times. The mattress fits well on the top and no one can know the extra advantage it holds underneath. This makes the room look neat and tidy without consuming any more of the little space the floor offers.
One can find great ranges of ottoman beds online as well. There are online furniture shops which helps their customers to get the best deal for the luxury they desire. Also you can find items from various other countries to match your stylish interiors. They are easy to be shipped and worth the price.
Bedsplanet.co.uk is the UK’s leading Online Bed and Bedroom Furniture Store, bringing you the very best beds and bedroom furniture from around the world at a low price, while at the same time giving you a great customer experience.
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What is So Good About Amtico Flooring
Aug 24th
What is So Good About Amtico Flooring
Amtico flooring is just about the most hardwearing and practical alternative to real wood.
Have a look at the comprehensive selection of Amtico flooring in the latest natural wood designs. These range from the softest colours such as white maple, to the mid toned classic oaks, and on to the darkest colour in our range Wenge Wood. All Amtico woods are genuine British made commercial grade {not the Asian made Spacia} and are available in ‘tick’ finish in the 114mm x 915mm standard size. They are all available from stock for next day delivery so you can avoid the frustrating long delivery times quoted by supposed Amtico stockists. You can even check out our real time stockholding online so that you cab book your installer in advance.
Choosing Amtico flooring means you don’t’ have to worry about long tem maintenance- your floor will never need sanding or re-finishing. The tough abrasion resistant surface will repel stains and moisture making it an ideal choice for wet areas such as bathrooms and shower rooms, and heavy wear areas such as hallways and entrance lobbies.
Amtico wood authentically replicates the natural product and it’s true characteristics. The Stripwood is highly variable in grain, shade and decoration. Please consider this in your product selection, as our online images only display a small section of the material.
Installing Amtico wood flooring can be undertaken by any reasonably competent DIYer with little in the way of equipment. If you are installing onto an existing wood floorboard, chipboard, or MDF sub-floor, it is always good practice to install a new plywood base first. Not only will this ensure long term wear, it will prevent undulations showing through your new flooring. If your sub-floor is reasonably flat, 6mm exterior grade moisture resistant plywood is adequate. This should be fixed at 15-20cm centers with screw nails.
If your sub-floor is old and extremely uneven, a heavier grade plywood 9mm or 12mm should be used. However before installing this, level off any hollows with a latex screed compound. Otherwise the plywood will never be completely flat.
After installing the plywood, spend as much time as possible filling any gaps in the joints, and knocking down nails flat. Then take down any high spots with a medium grade sand paper. Time taken on preparing the sub-floor will produce huge dividends when you have installed you new Amtico, so do not be tempted to cut any corners.
Depending on how flat and smooth you have managed to make the plywood base, it may be necessary to apply a further leveler such as Ardex Feather Finish which can be applied thinly without the risk of delaminating.
If you are installing over a solid floor e.g. concrete, asphalt, quarry tiles, stone flags etc. it is imperative that your do a thorough check of the moisture content of the sub-floor. Even a slight amount of moisture in a sub-floor will cause Amtico flooring to start lifting within a very short period of time. Your investment will then be wasted, as the floor will be beyond repair. Check first for the presence of a dpm, which should be visible on your outside, walls maybe the first or second line of brick or stone. If there is nothing evident, and your house was build before 1960, then it is safe to assume that there is no damp proof membrane in the sub-floor.
Your only option then is to apply a surface dpm to the sub-floor. These are a 2-part epoxy resin coating. These are easy to apply, but can take up to 48 hours to cure. The most widely used product is ES3000 made by Treetabond.
Once you have a dry clean solid sub-floor, a leveling screed should be laid. Always follow the screed manufacturers instructions with regard to the use of priming or bonding agents. Remember that if the screed de-bonds from the sub-floor, your new Amtico floor will also fail. The screed should be rubbed down as smooth as possible before installing your Amtico flooring. Any trowel marks, high or low spots will soon become evident once you have a new shiny floor over the screed. Therefore more time and effort spent on the preparations will be rewarded with a superior final floor finish.
The Amtico flooring in Stripwood should always be installed using the approved Amtico adhesives For wet areas the Amtico ‘Universal’ adhesive should always be used. Amtico flooring can be laid onto underfloor heating, provided that Amtico HT (high temperature) adhesive is used. For all other areas the standard Amtico SF (solvent free) adhesive can be used without problems.
As with all flooring, Amtico flooring will benefit from regular maintenance. The Amtico floor dressing will give enhanced protection from moisture and abrasion. The Amtico Cleaner will effectively clean your floor without stripping off the Dressing. However, when the time comes to renew the dressing, Amtico Dressing Remover is a powerful and aggressive stripper, which makes light work of removing heavy build-ups of old layers of floor dressing. Guidance on maintenance is available from the Amtico flooring web-site
Paul is technical manager at Birbek Wood Flooring which is a UK distributor of amtico.