Frequently Asked Questions
Your one-stop, start-to-finish interiors in Central Alberta.
If you have questions that aren’t answered here, reach out to our team of experts and we’ll be happy to help. Give us a call at (403) 346-7088.
The Rave Design Showroom is a locally owned business in Red Deer, Alberta, made up of four companies under one roof:
- Central Alberta Tile One
- Rave Interior Designs
- Central Alberta Lighting
- Stoneworx Masonry and Stucco
Together, in our 17,500 square foot showroom, we offer a full range of products and services for home and commercial design projects. We take pride in delivering top-notch service and are passionate about helping our customers create beautiful, functional spaces through quality products, expert workmanship, creative design, and exceptional customer care.
Whether you can install your new light yourself or need an electrician depends on the type of fixture and your comfort with electrical work. For simple replacements – like swapping out a ceiling light or wall sconce – you can usually do it yourself if you’re familiar with turning off the power at the breaker and handling wiring safely.
However, if the fixture is heavy, requires new wiring, or involves installing a dimmer or switch, it’s best to hire a licensed electrician to ensure it’s done safely and up to code. When in doubt, always consult a professional.
You don’t need to worry about taking your own measurements – we offer free in-home measures and estimates. One of our team members will come to your location and take accurate measurements of all the necessary areas to ensure a perfect fit for your blinds.
Incandescent bulbs produce light by heating a filament until it glows. They give off a warm light and are inexpensive upfront, but they’re very energy-inefficient and have a short lifespan (about 1,000 hours).
Fluorescent bulbs, including compact fluorescents (CFLs), use gas and a phosphor coating to produce light. They’re more efficient than incandescent and last longer (7,000–15,000 hours), but they contain a small amount of mercury and can take time to fully brighten. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient option. They use semiconductors to emit light, turn on instantly, last up to 50,000 hours, and come in a range of color temperatures. Although they cost more upfront, LEDs save money in the long run and are a great all-around choice for most spaces.
Sometimes – some tiles can be used on both floors and walls, but not always. Floor tiles are made to handle weight and traffic, so some can be used on walls too. However, wall tiles are usually thinner and may be too slippery or fragile for flooring. Always check the tile’s rating before using it in both applications.
We offer a wide variety of flooring, tiles, counters, blinds, furniture, lighting, exterior brick/stone, and more.
The timeline can vary depending on the supplier, but orders typically take about two weeks to arrive. To provide a more accurate estimate, we need to confirm where the stock is located and consider factors such as upcoming holidays or back orders that could cause delays. Whenever possible, we will contact the supplier directly for a stock check or use the online ordering system to get an estimated arrival date.
No, the freight charge is the cost to have your order shipped from our supplier to our warehouse. If you require your order to be delivered to site, please discuss that with your salesperson and they can inform you of the cost.
We evaluate returns on a case-by-case basis. There is a 30-day return window, and we can only accept full, unopened cartons. All returns are subject to a restocking fee and any applicable freight charges to return the product to the supplier. Stock products may be returned within the 30-day window. Please verify your measurements before placing your order and contact your salesperson for more information.
We carry a variety of cleaners, sealers, and polishes that can help keep your flooring, tile and/or counters looking pristine! The items below are some of our most popular.
Floor Cleaners:
Bright ‘n Easy No-Rinse Cleaner
- Removes tough household dirt and stains;
- Won’t leave behind any dulling film or residue, so your floors will look bright and clean after use.
Armstrong Once ‘n DoneResilient & Ceramic Cleaner
- Allows for easy removal of all types of dirt including oils and grease based soilage; Does not leave any harmful residues to dull the floor if not rinsed;
- Contains no harsh abrasives or free alkali.
Bona Hardwood Cleaner
- Professional strength, water based cleaner formulated to clean unwaxed, polyurethane finished wood floors;
- Specially formulated for use on hardwood floors;
- Leaves no dulling residue.
Floor Polish:
Armstrong Shinekeeper Resilient Floor Finish
- Restores the shine on all vinyl floors;
- Formulated in a way that it will stand up to traffic with minimum maintenance; Durable polish with strong resistance to detergents and excellent gloss retention.
Tile Cleaners:
Stonetech KlenzAll Cleaner
- Heavy duty strength, alkaline cleaner made to remove the toughest dirt, grease and grime from natural stone, tile, masonry and grout;
- Cleans, degreases and prepares the surface for resealing.
Stonetech Restore Acidic Cleaner
- Heavy duty, acidic cleaner that removes dirt, hard water deposits, efflorescence and rust from tile, acid–resistant stone, masonry and grout;
- Quickly renews the surface to a like-new appearance.
Stonetech Revitalizer Cleaner & Protector
- 3–in–1 formula that cleans everyday messes, reseals to reinforce stain protection and continuously defends against the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on natural stone and grout.
Tile & Grout Sealers:
Stonetech Stone, Tile & Grout Sealer
- A water–based, penetrating sealer that protects against stains on natural stone, tile, masonry, and grout;
- Preserves the original look of the surface;
- Interior and exterior use.
Stonetech Enhancer Pro Sealer
- A color enhancing, penetrating sealer that provides maximum color and stain protection on natural stone, masonry and grout;
- Deepens the natural rich color of porous surfaces without altering the finish.
Stonetech BulletProof Sealer
- A water-based penetrating sealer that provides maximum stain and antimicrobial product protection while preserving the natural look of the surface.
- Continuously inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria, mold and mildew on surfaces.
Quartz & Granite Polish:
Granquartz 113M Polish
Formulated to keep natural and engineered stone surfaces including granite, marble, quartz, limestone, travertine, ceramic and porcelain sparkling clean and looking brand new;
Conditions natural stone surfaces to restore, maintain and enhance their reflective luster and beautiful rich colors; Regular use makes surfaces easier to clean and leaves a water–resistant protective coating to safeguard against spills, hard water dark spots and etching.
Quartz and granite countertops differ mainly in how they’re made and how they perform. Granite is a natural stone that is cut from the earth and polished for use, which means every slab is completely unique with its own colors, veining, and natural movement. Because it is porous, granite does require sealing to protect it from stains and bacteria, but it is highly resistant to heat and gives a natural, one–of-a-kind look.
Quartz is an engineered surface made from ground quartz mixed with resin and pigments. This makes it non-porous, so it never needs sealing and is very resistant to stains and bacteria, but it is not quite as heat resistant as granite. Unlike granite, quartz tends to have a more uniform and consistent appearance, although many designs are made to mimic natural stone.
In terms of which is better, they are both great options. It really comes down to personal preferences. The chart below shows the differences between the two and can help in choosing the right one for your needs.
Laminate flooring and luxury vinyl plank (often called LVP) look similar but are made very differently, which affects how they perform. Laminate is built with a wood-based core and topped with a photographic layer that mimics wood, stone, or tile, and finished with a protective coating. Because it has a wood core, laminate is not fully waterproof. Spills need to be cleaned quickly or the boards can swell. Laminate usually feels more rigid underfoot and can look slightly more realistic in mimicking hardwood.
Luxury vinyl planks are made from layers of PVC vinyl and other composites, making it
very durable against moisture. LVP is softer, quieter, and better for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements where water is a concern.
In terms of which is better, vinyl is better if you need water resistance and durability, while laminate is better if you want a true hardwood look in a lower-moisture area like a living room or bedroom. The chart below shows the differences between the two and can help in choosing the right one for your needs.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are both made from clay, but the main difference lies in how they are manufactured and how durable they are.
Ceramic tile is made from softer clay and fired at a lower temperature, which makes it more porous, slightly less dense, and generally more affordable.
Porcelain tile is made from a finer, denser clay and fired at a much higher temperature, making it harder, more durable, and less absorbent.
In terms of which is better, porcelain is better suited for high-traffic areas and outdoor use, while ceramic is often used indoors where moisture and heavy wear isn’t as much of a
concern.
Click vinyl and glue-down vinyl flooring differ primarily in their installation methods, which impacts their performance and ideal use.
Click vinyl, also known as a floating floor, features a locking system that allows the planks to snap together without the need for adhesive. It “floats” over the subfloor and can often be installed over existing flooring. It may be more prone to slight movement or noise if the subfloor isn’t perfectly level.
Glue down vinyl requires adhesives to secure each plank directly to the subfloor, resulting in a more permanent and stable installation. This method is typically recommended for high- traffic areas because it provides a firmer, more secure feel underfoot and is less likely to shift over time. It offers greater sound absorption and stability. In terms of which is better, click vinyl may have a slightly higher material cost but lower labor expenses. Glue–down vinyl can be less expensive per square foot but may require professional installation due to the adhesive process and subfloor preparation.
This can vary quite a bit. The timeline and cost depend on factors such as the size of the job, the size of the tile, whether it’s being installed on a wall or floor, and the chosen pattern. Smaller jobs are typically quoted at an hourly installation rate, while larger projects are usually priced by the square foot.
Unfortunately, no. Tile is a man-made product and is subject to dye lot variations, so we cannot guarantee it will be identical to the sample. For example, floor tiles paired with coordinating wall tile, mosaics, or listello may not match perfectly. In many cases, these products are manufactured in different factories and can have subtle differences in sheen, texture, or color. This is considered acceptable within manufacturer tolerances, but it’s important to be aware of this possibility.
It is uncommon to find a tile that measures exactly 12×12 or 13×13; in most cases, the size will be slightly over or under. Unless you are using natural stone or a rectified tile, achieving exact measurements is nearly impossible. In addition, cuts will always be required – whether around floor vents, along walls, or due to the room not being perfectly square. These are all typical considerations that come up during installation.
The best way to prevent staining is to seal the grout once it has cured and reseal it every 1-2 years, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Clean spills quickly, use a pH-neutral cleaner, and avoid harsh chemicals that can wear down the sealer. Regular maintenance helps keep grout looking fresh. Refer to question 6 to see what products we offer that can help prevent staining.
Hardwood and engineered hardwood are both real wood flooring options, but the main difference lies in how they’re constructed.
Hardwood is made from a single piece of natural wood all the way through, which makes it durable, long-lasting, and able to be sanded and refinished multiple times. Engineered hardwood has a real hardwood top layer bonded to several layers of plywood or high- density fiberboard underneath. This layered construction makes engineered hardwood more stable, less likely to warp with changes in humidity, and often easier to install. In terms of which is better, it really depends on your space, budget, and priorities. Refer to the chart below to see a side-by-side comparison that can help determine which is suited for your situation.
Hardwood and engineered hardwood are both real wood flooring options, but the main difference lies in how they’re constructed.
Yes, all hardwood flooring requires a humidifier to maintain consistent moisture levels throughout the year. This helps prevent gapping and shrinking.
No, hardwood flooring needs to acclimate for about a week in the space where it will be installed. In many cases, the wood has just been shipped from the mill and needs time to dry and adjust to the temperature and humidity of your environment. The subfloor should be moisture-tested with a hygrometer, and its moisture content should closely match that of the hardwood to ensure a worry-free installation.
Hardwood and engineered hardwood are both real wood flooring options, but the main difference lies in how they’re constructed.
Hardwood is a natural product and may be subject to dents, dings, and scratches. With proper care – such as using felt pads on furniture and appropriate cleaning products – your hardwood floor should perform well for years to come. We can help you choose a harder wood species for added durability or guide you toward a distressed style that’s more forgiving and easier to maintain.
Porcelain tile, luxury vinyl plank/tile (LVP/LVT), or commercial-grade carpet tile are great choices. Porcelain is extremely durable and easy to clean, LVP/LVT is resilient and low- maintenance, and carpet tile adds comfort and noise reduction while allowing easy replacement of worn sections.
Design creates a welcoming atmosphere, reinforcing brand identity, and making the layout more functional. The right flooring, colors, and lighting enhance comfort and flow, while smart design choices can boost employee productivity and improve customer experience.
No. Carpet is typically manufactured in 12-foot or 15-foot widths, so seams are often unavoidable. We offer free carpet measurements and estimates to ensure your carpet is laid out properly with minimal and strategically placed seams.
The ideas below are suggestions that could work for your area.
In the kitchen, use bright, task-oriented lighting like recessed lights and under-cabinet fixtures to keep work areas well-lit; cooler color temperatures (3000-4000K) work best here.
For the living room, layer your lighting with a mix of overhead lights, floor or table lamps, and accent lighting to create a warm, inviting feel – stick to warmer tones (2700–3000K).
In the bedroom, go for soft, ambient lighting with options like bedside lamps or wall sconces, ideally with dimmers, to create a cozy, relaxing environment.
We do not install lighting ourselves, however, we are more than happy to recommend electricians that can provide you with installation services. The only product we install and have a designated installer for is our Gemstone Lights.
We handle all warranty claims in-house. Just bring the light back to us, and we’ll take care of everything – from communicating with the manufacturer to processing the claim. Once the issue is resolved or the replacement is ready, we’ll contact you to pick it up. It’s a hassle-free process on your end.
Not at all – what you see in our showroom is just the tip of the iceberg. We offer a much wider selection than what’s on display. If you have a specific style or fixture in mind, feel free to bring in pictures or inspiration, and we’ll be happy to source that exact product or find similar options that fit your needs. Our goal is to help you find the perfect light for your space.
We don’t buy or accept used lights, but we recommend trying platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji if you’d like to sell them. Donating to your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore is also a great option – they may accept gently used lighting, and it supports a good cause.
Yes, we absolutely offer in-store consultations for renovations – not just new builds. You’re welcome to stop by our showroom, and one of our knowledgeable salespeople will be happy to help you plan all your lighting needs. Whether you’re updating one room or your entire home, we’ll work with you to find the right fixtures and styles to match your vision.
Yes, we offer interior design services at an hourly rate. If you stop in our showroom and speak with one of our interior designers, they can provide you with more information.
Yes, all the furniture and artwork on display are available for purchase. If there’s something specific that you are looking for that we don’t currently have in-store, we’re happy to source it for you, find comparable options, or arrange a custom order to suit your needs. We’re here to help you find the perfect pieces for your space.
Yes, we do sell area rugs! We have a selection in stock to choose from, or you can select a carpet style you like that we can order in and then have cut and bound to your exact measurements. We bind area rugs in-house and will contact you once they are ready.
Flooring Trends (2025):
Current flooring trends emphasize warmth, sustainability, and practicality. Earthy wood tones like honey oak and walnut are making a strong comeback, often in wide-plank formats with matte or hand-scraped finishes.
Luxury vinyl remains a top choice for its durability, realistic natural looks, and affordability.
Eco-conscious options such as bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood are gaining traction alongside high-tech features like in-floor heating and sensor-integrated flooring.
Bold layout patterns (herringbone, chevron) and mixed materials (wood with stone or tile inlays) are also growing in popularity, along with a vintage revival of terrazzo and linoleum in updated colorways.
Tile Trends (2025):
Tile design in 2025 is all about personality, texture, and immersive color. Bold, statement tiles featuring geometric, Moroccan, or checkerboard patterns are being used to anchor focal points like backsplashes, fireplaces, and bathrooms.
Textured and 3D tiles – including zellige, fluted, and hand-crafted artisan styles – add depth and visual interest, especially in earthy tones like terracotta, moss green, and sand. Mosaic tiles, metallic finishes, and soft pastels are bringing artistic flair, while full “tile drenching” (using one tile throughout an entire space) is trending for a seamless, dramatic effect.
Sustainability is also a key driver, with increased use of recycled and low–impact materials. Lighting Trends (2025):
Lighting trends currently focus on bold, sculptural designs, natural materials like wood, stone, rattan, and smart technology. Oversized pendants and artistic fixtures are popular as statement pieces, while layered lighting – combining ambient, task, and accent light – is key for creating mood. Warm brass finishes, colorful glass, and vintage-inspired styles are also making a comeback, blending classic charm with modern function.
- Go Light & Neutral
- Soft whites, creams, and light greys make walls and floors feel more open and airier. Choose Larger Surfaces
- Wide planks or large-format tiles reduce grout lines and create a seamless look.
- Use Mirrors Strategically
- Mirrors bounce light around the room and give the illusion of depth.
- Keep It Minimal
- Clean lines, less furniture, and uncluttered décor help the space breathe.
- Add Vertical Interest
- Tall curtains, vertical tiles, or accent walls draw the eye upward, making ceilings feel higher.
