When it comes to furnishing a home, few items make as big of an impact as the choice of flooring material. Finding the right flooring for a house can be overwhelming when there are so many materials, colors, and textures to choose from. This guide will provide you with invaluable information to take the stress out of picking the right flooring material for your home.
For starters, homeowners should take into account how much money they are able and willing to spend on new flooring. Budgets can be tight and there are a variety of options at different price points depending on the budget. A good place to start is taking a look around the room and determining what kind of traffic the room experiences on a daily basis and what overall look the homeowners are hoping to achieve.
The resistance of different kinds of flooring to wear and tear should also be considered. Wood or tile, for instance, are highly durable, so if the room experiences heavy foot traffic, those materials may be ideal. As an added bonus, these materials will also last for a longer period of time in comparison to groutable vinyl or luxury vinyl.
Next, the room’s humidity levels should be taken into account, as some flooring materials react differently to excessive amounts of humidity. Hardwood flooring is one example of a material that requires special attention when it comes to excessive humidity levels. Laminate flooring, however, presents an excellent alternative to hardwood, as it is more resistant to moisture and can remain in tip-top condition for a long period of time.
For rooms with high levels of humidity or wetness, porcelain tile is one of the best choices. These materials are extremely resistant to moisture and are relatively low-maintenance.
When it comes to flooring material, consider other aspects such as ease of installation, upkeep time, and effort, as well as indoor air quality and heat absorption. Carpet, for example, is an excellent choice for a bedroom if you’re looking for something that is easy to maintain, and can help make a room feel more relaxed and inviting.
Finally, make sure you take into account the style and look of the flooring in relation to the rest of the home. If you are looking for an organic, rustic vibe then going for natural wood might be a great decision. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more modern, groutable vinyl or tile are good options.
No matter which flooring material you decide to go with, be sure to educate yourself on the material and its characteristics before you make a purchase. Researching the right flooring layers for your living space will provide you with the confidence in knowing you made the best option for you and your family.
Once the material has been chosen, its time to get to work. Homeowners may choose to install the flooring material themselves, or they may choose to hire a professional. Both routes have their pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh them out carefully before making a decision. DIY installations can often save homeowners money, while experienced professionals can provide a better quality of install and help protect against any installation errors.
When it comes to installation, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Neglecting to do so properly can lead to poor installation and eventual failure of the flooring. If you’re installing hardwood, for example, you should take care to make sure it is level by using special tools such as a moisture meter or level.
Once the flooring has been correctly installed, make sure to use the right type of cleaner to keep it looking its best for years to come. Natural hardwood is more vulnerable than other flooring options, so use a cleaner specifically formulated for wood. A wrong cleaner will not only not clean the dirt, but may even damage the floor. Decorative products like furniture glides or cushioned mats should also be used to further protect the flooring, as these can help keep scuff marks, dents, and scratches from pets and furniture to a minimum.
For an added bit of luxury to the home, homeowners can consider heating options like radiant heat flooring. This type of flooring is becoming increasingly popular as it not only looks great, but also adds the ultimate comfort to any room in the home.
When it comes to carpeting, homeowners should pick the most durable variety based on traffic patterns and consider the life cycle of different products. Unfortunately, many carpets don’t stand the test of time and homeowners will need to replace them sooner than later.
As a final touch, accent rugs are a great way to add a touch of style to a room. These can be used to showcase certain colors or patterns and draw attention to a space, while also protecting the original flooring from damage.
These simple tips and tricks can make choosing the right flooring material for your home easier. Be sure to take all aspects of the project into account before making a final decision.