When shopping for materials, consider the traffic your floors will take. Densely-trafficked areas of the home, such as the kitchen, require materials that can handle constant wear and tear. Linoleum, for example, is a great choice here because of its low cost and superior durability. You can also opt for vinyl, ceramic tile, or even bamboo and cork for high-traffic areas. Areas of the home with less traffic, such as bedrooms, may be better suited to softer materials such as wood, laminate, or luxury vinyl tile.
Of course, the painstaking process of finding the perfect materials should include a lot of research. Look online for reviews on materials and consider how they might age over time. If you’re thinking of investing in a particular material, take a few minutes to find out what other homeowners have to say. This information can help you make an informed decision that will make you proud for years to come.
Don’t forget to factor in the ease of installation whenever you consider home flooring. It’s no fun to bring in a professional just to find out that the material is difficult to install. Research whether a material requires any sort of special tools or needs to be installed by a professional. If you know how to lay tile or vinyl, you may be able to tackle the job yourself. Just remember to be prepared for a bit of trial and error.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to make a budget. Think of it this way: Purchasing a lower quality material can save you some money in the short-term, but you can expect to invest in repairs and replacements sooner than later. Investing in a better material usually equates to a longer lifespan and fewer problems down the road.
Jumping into the DIY aesthetic? Don’t forget to consider any accouterments such as grout, spacers, and sealer. If you’re installing a particular type of tile, make sure you buy enough and that it is of the same size and color. Professional contractors may even be able to provide advice on the ideal combination of materials and colors for your space.
When it comes to shopping for materials, some of the best deals are found online. Many retailers offer interesting sales and discounts, especially during the holiday season. Take a few minutes to compare the prices of materials, as well as the reviews and comments left by other customers.
Lastly, think about the maintenance and upkeep when shopping for home flooring. The level of care that different materials require can vary greatly. Tiles, for instance, need to be sealed occasionally, whereas hardwood floors require regular waxing and wax stripping. Be prepared to invest the necessary amount of time and energy into maintaining your floors once you’ve installed them.
At the same time, be sure to follow our tips on how to keep your floors looking great and how to spot any damages early. Split and cracked tiles should be repaired and replaced immediately, since leaving them in place can lead to leaking and other issues. Invest in some grout cleaner and laminate refresher so you can give your floors a bit of shine every now and then. Keep up with routine maintenance, and your floors can last you a lifetime.
Evaluating environmental factors should also be part of the shopping process. If you’re looking to invest in eco-friendly materials, look for materials that can be recycled, require minimal energy to produce, and that score high on industry best practices for quality and sustainability.
Sometimes displaying samples of materials in natural and artificial light can provide a great idea of a material’s performance and aesthetic. You might also be pleasantly surprised by the range of customization options. Don’t forget to double check the warranties before making a purchase.
Carefully considering a material’s durability can prevent costly replacements. Is the material scratch-resistant? Does it look good and long-lasting? Gauge its potential against the desired lifespan and severity of your local climate.
Online design tools can provide a good idea of the type of flooring that would fit best with the interior design of your home. Get creative and let yourself be inspired by the infinite range of options available on the market.
Are you up for a bit of luxury? Think of materials like hand-scraped hardwood or luxury vinyl tile, both of which come in multiple colors and patterns. You can also invest in heated flooring for a special touch.
Finally, don’t be afraid to weigh the pros and cons of each material and discuss them with your contractor. After all, this is a big investment that can make a huge difference in the aesthetic of your home. Your floors will be a part of your day-to-day life, so make sure to factor in the durability, ease of installation, cost, and upkeep.