Choosing just the right flooring for your home can be a daunting task. Do you want something durable, sustainable, stylish – or maybe all three? How do you narrow down the choices?
To help in the decision-making process, we’ve put together a flooring guide that’s sure to help you find the perfect fit for your home. Let’s dive in!
First, there’s style. If you want something modern and timeless, you can’t go wrong with tile. Ceramic and porcelain tile are the most popular options for many households. Tile offers a variety of looks and colors to choose from, and at a great price. There’s also the option of wood-look tile, a hybrid option that looks like wood but is more durable and water-resistant than traditional hardwood.
Next up is durability. If you need something that can withstand heavy foot traffic and wear and tear, laminate is the way to go. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and there are so many colors and styles to choose from. Plus, laminate is one of the most affordable flooring options on the market.
For a naturally beautiful look, consider hardwood. Each plank boasts a unique grain pattern and color variation, making every room one-of-a-kind. It’s a bit more expensive than laminate, but it’s worth it if you have the budget. The great news is that there are plenty of ways to save money when shopping for hardwood – from hand-scraped to engineered hardwood.
Carpet is another great option if you want something that is soft and warm on your feet. It’s a perfect fit for bedrooms and living rooms where you’ll be walking without shoes. Carpet also comes with a lot of options, from plush to berber, and from solid colors to interesting patterns.
Last, but not least, LVT or luxury vinyl tile is a great choice if you want a durable, waterproof floor with a lot of style and personality. This material is easy to install and maintain, and makes for a great surface in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and more.
These are just a few of the most popular flooring choices today – but whichever you choose, know that you’re making an investment that will last.
Sustainability. If you’re looking for a flooring option that is kind to the environment, check into cork, bamboo, and vinyl. Cork is a renewable material made from tree bark harvested without destroying the tree, and it’s also naturally water-resistant! Bamboo is another sustainable option. It’s highly durable and comes in a variety of styles and colors. Vinyl, on the other hand, is a synthetic material made from recycled materials.
Cost. Some flooring materials may seem like the perfect fit for you, but they might come with a hefty price tag. To make sure you don’t compromise on style, take a look at your budget and look for flooring materials that fit within it. And do your research – from special sales to bargains, there are plenty of ways to save money when buying flooring!
Installation. Depending on the flooring material, installation can be a breeze or take some time. Before you buy, make sure you research the installation process. With certain types of flooring, such as tile, professional installation is preferred or even required. With others, such as laminate, you can install the floor yourself.
Durability. Durability is key when it comes to flooring. Make sure you buy materials that can not only withstand your lifestyle, but also the wear and tear of everyday traffic. And don’t forget to do your research – certain materials like cork and bamboo don’t fare so well when it comes to standing up to water.
Maintenance. Some flooring materials require more maintenance than others. For instance, hardwood requires special attention to keep it looking great. Carpet, on the other hand, requires vacuuming and dry cleaning. Do your research to make sure the flooring material you choose is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Noise. If you live in an apartment or a home with multiple floors, noise can be an issue. If sound insulation is important, consider investing in cork or bamboo. These materials are naturally resistant to noise and can make a world of difference in your home.
Types of Finish. Finally, there are a variety of finishes that you can choose from, such as matte, glossy or semi-glossy. These finishes will determine how your floor looks and how easy it is to clean. Do your research to find the right finish for your flooring.