Most people eventually come to the realization that installing durable flooring can reduce wear and tear in their home. Even if one opts for the economically conscious selection such as low-grade vinyl flooring, a quality installation and the right maintenance habits can extend the lifespan of the flooring far beyond that which basic flooring can usually last.
It’s no secret that when it comes to flooring, hardwoods – especially engineered varieties – are the gold standard. Hardwood flooring both looks luxurious and is incredibly resilient to daily wear and tear. Scuffs, spills, and dropped items are all no match for hardwood flooring. For those willing to invest in hardwood floors, there is no better choice for protecting your home investment as well as keeping your home looking beautiful for years to come.
However, hardwood flooring isn’t the only option to ensure flooring longevity in your home. Porcelain and ceramic tiles, some natural stones, and a variety of other luxury vinyl planks (LVPs) have similar benefits. While not as hard as traditional hardwood, they can provide a similar wear and tear profile.
Luxury vinyl product is not a new innovation. In fact, it’s been around for many years and continues to be a smart, fashionable, and affordable choice for people who want to reduce wear and tear in their homes. With its improved water resistance, luxury vinyl plank flooring is now a viable option in bathrooms and kitchens, while upscale luxury vinyl tile brings the look of ceramic tile or natural stone to any room where tile is an appropriate flooring option.
Regardless of the kind of flooring you choose, using quality underlayment is the single most important step you can take to reduce wear and tear in your home. Underlayment gives your flooring a layer of cushioning and noise reduction and even helps to mitigate heat loss – a win-win all around.
Adding a new floor to your home is a major expense, and it’s one that you want to have last for years to come. Quality flooring and good underlayment are both investments in the longevity of your floor that will pay off in years of satisfaction.
An unresolved question is whether you should use a professional flooring installer or take on the project yourself. On the one hand, if you’re confident in your ability to create a quality finish, installing new flooring on your own could be a great way to save money. On the other hand, if you’re not sure of your skills and knowledge, you may want to consider hiring a professional with the experience necessary to ensure the highest-quality results.
When it comes time to choose a flooring type, it’s important to consider the design and budget for the project. Luxury vinyl plank and tiles provide resiliences comparable to hardwood flooring, at a much more affordable price point. For those that want to veer more towards a premium look, be sure to check out the range of hardwood options available.
If you’re looking for a flooring type that’s both beautiful and affordable for the long term, porcelain tiles can be a great choice. Porcelain tiles may often mimic the look of stone, but they are far easier to clean and maintain. Additionally, porcelain tiles have levels of scratch and stain resistance that are quire impressive relative to their softer stone counterparts.
When it comes to preserving the wear and tear in your home, one of the most important factors to consider is the surface finish. Advancements in polyurethane flooring coatings have made them the go-to choice for homeowners looking for an easy-to-clean, durable finish. Plus, polyurethane’s popularity means that there are a variety of finish options available to fit any look and style.
But for those who want a truly natural, luxurious look, consider wax coating. Wax coatings vary in consistency and coarseness, so you can choose from a variety of different looks. Additionally, wax coatings offer a greater level of sound absorption than other coatings, making them a great choice for any area of your home.
And, while hardwood and luxury vinyl are both great options for wear and tear, consider also very durable options that are low-maintenance and good for both the environment and your wallet. Bamboo is an incredibly fast-growing plant that yields a durable, highly sustainable flooring option. Plus, bamboo flooring comes in a variety of styles, so you can find one to suit all your interior design needs.
For a more affordable and unique option, cork is also a popular flooring choice. Cork flooring is an environmentally friendly, durable, and impact resistant flooring option that can last for many years. Protective finishes, such as low VOC polyurethanes, can help your cork floor resist moisture penetration and discoloration.
When selecting the best flooring to reduce wear and tear throughout your home, it’s important to consider three key factors: cost, durability, and design. That’s why it’s a good idea to take your time to compare, consider, and weigh all of the options available to you. From bamboo or cork to luxury vinyl and hardwood, the right flooring type for your home is out there.