Frequently Asked Questions

Saxony features tightly twisted upright fibers that create a smooth, formal appearance, while Frieze has longer, more twisted fibers that curl and create a textured, casual look. Frieze is more forgiving with footprints and vacuum marks. At Royal Interiors Inc, we help Reston homeowners choose based on room formality and traffic patterns.

Refinishing involves sanding down the existing hardwood surface to remove scratches and old finish, then applying new stain and protective coatings. This process restores the wood's appearance and extends its lifespan. Most hardwood floors can be refinished multiple times depending on plank thickness.

Yes, LVP flooring is engineered specifically for durability in high-traffic spaces with strong resistance to dents, scratches, and stains. Its wear layer protects against daily wear from foot traffic, pets, and furniture movement. At Royal Interiors Inc, we recommend LVP for busy households throughout Northern Virginia.

Bamboo flooring offers better water resistance than most traditional hardwoods due to its natural density and cellular structure. While not fully waterproof, it handles humidity and minor spills better than oak or maple. It's a cost-effective alternative for areas with moderate moisture exposure.

Cork flooring provides natural sound absorption, thermal insulation, and comfortable cushioning underfoot, making it ideal for basement living spaces. Its antimicrobial properties resist mold and mildew. At Royal Interiors Inc, we install cork flooring to create quieter, warmer basement rooms in Reston and surrounding areas.

Porcelain tile is denser and less porous than ceramic, making it more resistant to moisture, stains, and heavy impact. It's better suited for high-traffic kitchens and areas exposed to spills. Both glazed ceramic and porcelain offer hygienic, durable surfaces for countertops and floors.

Granite countertops require periodic sealing to prevent stains and moisture absorption, typically once or twice per year. Daily cleaning with mild soap and water preserves the finish. Avoid acidic cleaners that can etch the surface and compromise the sealant over time.

Failing to acclimate laminate planks to the room's temperature and humidity before installation often causes expansion or contraction issues later. Proper acclimation typically takes 48 hours. At Royal Interiors Inc, we follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure stable, long-lasting laminate floors.

Replace carpet when it shows permanent staining, worn traffic patterns, persistent odors, or padding deterioration that cleaning can't fix. Most carpets last 5 to 15 years depending on quality and use. Visible matting and loss of cushioning also signal it's time for replacement.

Yes, Virginia's humid summers and dry winters cause hardwood to expand and contract seasonally. Maintaining indoor humidity between 35% and 55% minimizes gaps and cupping. At Royal Interiors Inc, we account for local climate conditions during installation and recommend appropriate finishes for Reston homes.

Solid hardwood floors including parquet, strip, and plank styles can typically be refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood has a thinner wear layer and may only support one or two refinishing cycles. The thickness of the top wood layer determines how many times sanding is possible.

Natural stone offers unique, elegant patterns and durability but requires more maintenance and sealing than glazed ceramic or porcelain tile. Stone is porous and can stain if not properly sealed. At Royal Interiors Inc, we install premium natural stone for clients seeking distinctive, high-end surfaces in Northern Virginia.