Flooring is a serious decision, mainly because of its cost but also the difficulties of getting product installed. So obviously you don't want to make any mistakes. But it's also a complex subject. But it is a good time to consider upgrading because manufacturers have bent over backwards to improve their products without increasing the costs to consumers.

Concrete

• Recyclable
• Little waste during installation
• No harmful "volatile organic compounds"
• Needs to be resealed every 2 years
• Easy cleaning
• Sweep and wash with vinegar or gentle floor cleaner

• Granite - durable and resistant to staining; good for kitchens
• Marble - elegant, durable, beautiful; must be sealed and cleaned regularly
• Limestone - not recommended for heavy traffic areas; can scratch and scuff
• Travertine - porous; requires resealing; less durable than granite or marble
• Slate - water-resistant; ideal for outdoor applications

• Ceramic - durable, glazed or sealed, not damaged by water
• Porcelain - easy to clean, long lasting, moisture resistant
• Terra Cotta - rustic, weathered look; lasts longest when sealed

• Hardwood - environmentally friendly; look for FSC seal to be sure lumber is from sustainable, managed forest
• Bamboo - very durable, dent resistant, flame-resistant; can be nailed down or glued down or floated
• Cork - rapidly renewable material, doesn't kill trees; great acoustic properties, blocks sound, keeps space quieter; spongy for less fatigue when standing long times; resilient against marks, fire resistant and hypoallergenic
• Carpet - adds warmth, style, texture, softness; hides sub-floor irregularities; install over most surfaces; offers more options

Here are some eco-friendly tips to help you save:

• Designate a family member each week to make sure lights are turned out when leaving or not being used.
• Reduce odors by using baking soda, especially in refrigerator.
• Keep windows locked to improve seal and prevent leaks of warm or cooled air.
• Boil water faster by using a lid on pan.
• Turn off dishwater before dry cycle and let things air dry.
• Look for concentrated products that last longer.
• Stock up on extra supplies each month as costs are going up.
• Send kids to school with litter-less lunches in reusable containers.

Every year it seems like my storage needs double in size. I admit I'm a bit of a packrat. But I can't keep "kicking the can down the road" like our politicians are doing with the country's debt. Sooner or later there always comes a day of reckoning. Here are some tips that can help others as well as your de-cluttering needs:

• Donate old blankets, thick towels, linens to animal shelters for the cages.
• Donate unused furniture to National Furniture Bank Association that gives to victims of hurricanes, floods and earthquakes. Also helps victims of abuse and those below poverty levels.
• World Computer Exchange is a nonprofit that donates your old computers and equipment to disadvantaged kids in more than 65 countries. Make sure you strip them of all personal data first.
• National Cristina Foundation (cristina.org) donates equipment to charities everywhere.
• Handheld electronic gaming devices are most cherished by military troops overseas. Contact Games for Heroes (gamesforheroes.com).
• Get-Well Gamers Foundation (getwellgamers.org) distributes to 40 children's hospitals.
• Dress for Success (dressforsuccess.org) donates clothing to disadvantaged women and helps them find employment.
• Donate old prom dresses to DonateMyDress.org.
• Brides Against Breast Cancer (bridesagainstbreastcancer.org) takes wedding gowns, slips and veils. Proceeds go to MakingMemories.org.

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