When building or remodeling a home, it’s essential to determine the best type of flooring for the space. After all, flooring sets the tone of the home, from sophisticated and cozy to industrial and modern. Read on to discover the best materials and styles for your next flooring adventure.
First, consider your lifestyle. A family of five may not want a white high-traffic rug. Busy households should opt for scratch-resistant and durable floors like hardwoods, tiles, or luxury vinyl planks (LVPs). If you’re looking for something that’s stain-resistant, pick a darker color as it helps hide any spills.
Think about your budget too. There are options that meet any budget range. Carpet is an inexpensive yet comfortable choice for those on a budget, while hardwood floors are pricier and tend to be a high-end look. LVPs and laminate mimic the look of wood but come in at a mid-price point. They offer more durability than carpets while still keeping with a tight budget.
Not sure which style is right for you? Check out the many colors and textures of hardwood, such as rustic oak with its warm grain, or shale-colored South American walnut for a modern touch. Likewise, there are a variety of tile shapes and sizes, from subway tile and ceramic slip-resistant squares to stylish porcelain black and white hexagons. Say goodbye to plain and boring and hello to character and uniqueness.
Don’t forget to factor in the climate of the area you’re in as well. In drier areas with significant heat, carpeting can be a great insulator while hardwoods are less ideal. Conversely, in humid areas, hardwoods will be better and low-maintenance.
Finally, make a plan. Now, you have all the tools necessary to make the best choice for your home. Consider your budget, lifestyle and style preferences, and climate, then map out the perfect floor for your home.
Now that you know all the basics, let’s dig a bit deeper. For the utmost durability, hardwood is the obvious choice and comes in many different species, ranging from ash to maple to cherry. Its naturalness gives floors a warm and cozy feel, protecting and adding value to the home. Oak, for example, is renowned for its strength and classic look.
Another option is tile, which comes in a variety of materials, from ceramic to stone to marble. If durability is your main concern, ceramic tiles are a popular choice and can withstand plenty of traffic. Once it’s in place, don’t forget about maintenance, as grout lines should be sealed and replaced every few years.
For those looking to give their home a sophisticated feel with a more economical choice, Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVPs) are like having laminate floors and tile combined in one material. They are waterproof, and easy to install, and come in a range of textures and colors.
If a rustic, stylish look is desired, reclaimed wood may be the best option. Reclaimed wood is obtained from old warehouses or constructions, so it is way more durable than new plank and brings a level of character to any room, especially if the wood still bore attended in.
In the end, it all depends on your preference, style, and what you are willing to invest. But, regardless of what you choose, it’s important to be a responsible homeowner when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Regular dust mops and vacuuming are among the techniques you’ll need to get the job done right.
No matter which type of flooring you ultimately choose, it’s important to understand the qualities of each to make a better decision. That way, you can ensure that your floors keep your home looking stylish and sparkling for years to come.
Now that you know the basics let’s look further into each option. Hardwoods are available in a variety of species with unique grain patterns. Oak has been a classic for centuries, its staple pigmentation ranging from honey tones and warm reds to deep, earthy browns, all which contribute a warmth and unique beauty to its surrounding décor.
On the other hand, ceramic tile is the most versatile and resistant flooring option. But, ceramic tile is not limited to one color, ranging from glossy whites, browns, to any shade in between. Besides its popularity due to its durability and price, tile often stands out from other materials due to its glossy finishes, providing extra elegance to any space without breaking your budget.
When cost is the main factor, LVPs and laminate offer a more affordable feel without sacrificing a luxurious touch. And just like hardwoods, they also come in a variety of colors and textures, from rich, deep mahogany to cool, blonde hues, all providing a unique beauty to any setting.
Reclaimed wood, on the other hand, is a great pick if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option. Not only is it sustainable, which reduces deforestation and pollution, but it also has a vintage, rustic look while still emphasizing modern trends and being cost-effective.
Life is full of important decisions, and deciding which flooring is best for your home is no different. Being aware of budget, lifestyle, climate, and style will allow you to make the best choice for your home, whether it is hardwood, tile, laminate or another material. With this knowledge, you are now armed to make the right decision and guarantee great looking floors for many years to come.