Are you renovating? What if we told you that the finishes and materials you choose can make your house look cleaner than ever!
Are you the kind of person who finds having to wage a constant battle against finger marks, footprints, and dirty surfaces in your home depressing? There is a solution. Certain materials, finishes and colours can have a major impact on the overall appearance of your rooms.
Long Live Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel
Are you sick and tired of nagging your kids about them touching the fridge, oven or dishwasher without using the handle? After having spent several minutes polishing stainless steel surfaces to a flawless shine, it is irritating to discover new fingerprints. Some manufacturers have come up with a remedy: smudge-proof or fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel appliances. The downside is that they’re rather expensive.
Fall in Love with Coloured Grout
Grout joints between ceramic tiles in the shower, on the floor or on the wall attract dirt. After only a few months, white joints may turn grey or yellow, or even become stained. There are methods out there for deep cleaning, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Choose a dark coloured grout from the outset. Is your porcelain tile in a pale shade? No problem: contrasting tiles and grout can be just as attractive!
Mat Black Faucets Are the Perfect Choice!
The very fashionable black faucet in a matte finish is likewise a lifesaver for those who want to banish water and finger marks from their plumbing fixtures (which is a common problem with stainless steel fittings). You must, however, be mindful that water can cause white mineral deposits – highly visible on a black surface – to accumulate. If this is the case, daily cleaning will still be required. And while we’re discussing matte black, did you know that you can purchase appliances in this finish that are also naturally smudge-proof?
Revolutionary (ish) Ceramic Tile
For a ceramic surface that is as beautiful as it is practical, opt for a Lappato finish to repel dirt and grime. This finish has been specifically designed to hide marks. The secret? The tiles are both glossy and matte.
Patterned or Strongly Grained Flooring
The more a material is textured or contains various colours, the less apparent dirt will be. The best way to take advantage of this fact when it comes to flooring is to choose wood with a highly visible grain, marbled ceramic tiles, or vinyl planks that mimic wood. It is also recommended that you select the matte varnish option.
Best Finishes for Cabinets
Glossy melamine is a very popular material for kitchen cabinets. There are several models to choose from and it is affordable; however, it is a disaster when it comes to finger marks. If you want to avoid spending your days wiping down your cabinets, we suggest that you use this new type of melamine, part of the Éléganté collection, on which hands leave no trace. Its finish is a mixture of matte and gloss, which makes all the difference. But if you prefer your kitchen cabinets to be made of natural wood, opt for a matte rather than glossy varnish.
Use Matte Paint on the Walls
Shiny reflective surfaces draw the eye and are usually more damage prone. You might be shooting yourself in the foot if you paint your walls or ceilings with a velvety or glossy finish, especially if they aren’t perfectly smooth. It is best to choose a matte paint (regardless of whether it is in a dark or pale hue). Here’s a tip: pick one that washes well despite its matte finish. You may have to spend more, but it will be worth it.
Avoid Glass!
Glass surfaces never stay spotless for long, it’s just in their nature. Simply avoid glass side tables or coffee tables. What can you replace them with? Most other materials are a better choice, but raw natural wood is difficult to match in terms of apparent cleanliness. Dirt, dust and scratches will be invisible! And for homeowners who are frustrated with the state of their shower doors, there are products that can be applied to the surface to make it more slippery and prevent soap scum from sticking.
By implementing these tips, you will see a marked improvement in your home. Results guaranteed!