Flooring provides a vast array of benefits to your home. Depending on its type, it could improve your house’s insulation and heating. It may also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. In addition, it could make your property easier to clean and maintain.
To make the most of your flooring, you may need to choose the best type. Each flooring product has strengths and weaknesses you may consider. You could start with assessing your preference and needs before researching the options.
Suppose you’re planning to install or renovate your flooring. In that case, you may consider reading this article for insights that could help you decide which flooring best fits your home. So, read on!
- Hardwood
Hardwood is one of the most popular types of flooring today. Generally, it comes from milled wood. It may also contain compact wood throughout. Hardwood flooring is durable and versatile. It could last for a very long time and may fit any interior design.
Hardwood also comes in several varieties: walnut, cherry, oak, and maple. You could check out Southern Luxe Flooring and other providers for more hardwood options. You may also consider asking for references from your friends and colleagues who have just worked on their flooring for more ideas.
However, hardwood flooring is more challenging to maintain and is more expensive. It may need rigorous and regular cleaning maintenance and may require a high-end floor cleaner. It is also prone to moisture damage, making it unideal for kitchens and bathrooms. It could also have a damaged surface when dented or scratched.
- Laminate
This is less expensive compared to the other floor types. Typically, it’s made of particleboard wood base sandwiched by wood and tile photo with a transparent protective layer at the bottom or in between the materials. Laminate also comes in different colors and textures.
Laminate flooring is also scratch- and dent-resistant. In addition, it is easy to maintain and clean. A soft brush and broom could remove the organic waste attached to the floor. However, it’s also susceptible to water damage and chips easily. This is best for those who prefer DIY because it’s easy to install.
- Vinyl
If properly installed, vinyl flooring can be water-resistant. It’s also fade-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain. Many homeowners consider vinyl when they pick the flooring appropriate for their bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Additionally, vinyl comes in different colors and thicknesses. The latter includes sheet, plank, and sheet form.
However, this type of flooring can be expensive. Thinner vinyl products may ask for a dollar and a half per square foot, while thicker ones may cost more. Yet, the collective price for installation services is affected by the thickness and the vinyl design.
- Engineered Wood
Many woodworkers call this a ‘poor man’s hardwood flooring.’ Generally, it combines a layer of bonded hardwood and a top-notch plywood substrate. This is very easy to install as long as you know the basics of carpentry and flooring. Its versatility includes its multiple installation methods, possible cutting of sizes, and resistance to typical damage, such as elements.
Engineered wood varieties have different forms and types. It’s also DIY-friendly and water-resistant. However, engineered wood has a weaker structure as its strength is drawn from its wooden brace. It may also sound hollow when stepped on barefoot.
- Tile
If you’re planning to install flooring in moisture-rich spaces, such as kitchens and bathrooms, you may consider tile flooring. This type is waterproof and highly durable. Tiles also come in various colors, designs, and sizes. In addition, it’s known for its longevity unless forcefully broken.
Generally, tiles are more expensive than most types of flooring. It may also require a professional as specific tools and materials are needed to install this type properly. It may also take more time before you can step on them. Tiles are easy to clean and maintain. However, you may need to ensure that they’re completely dry to prevent them from being slippery.
- Linoleum
Linoleum is a product made from linseed oil and cork. This could be the least expensive flooring option among your choices. Typically, it requires minimal maintenance and can be cleaned easily. If installed properly, this flooring product could last for years. Many consider linoleum as an eco-friendly option you may try for your floors.
Linoleum’s downside is its poor structure. To prevent it from being damaged early, you may need to refrain from installing it in moisture-prone spaces. Apart from this, you may consider placing it in areas without direct exposure to sunlight to avoid discoloration. Lastly, some linoleum products may easily tear or cut if awkwardly installed.
- Stone
These durable flooring options come in many varieties, such as marble, sandstone, and granite. In many cases, they’re installed in both outdoor and indoor spaces. Many homeowners prefer this type because of its natural beauty and elegant appearance. Apart from this, stone flooring is waterproof and long-lasting.
On the other hand, stone flooring tends to be slippery when wet. They’re also challenging to install and require a lot of preparation and maintenance. Furthermore, most stone products are more expensive than your other flooring options.
Wrapping Up
After reading about the different flooring options you may choose from, you could compare them according to their qualities. You may check their durability, waterproofing properties, and long-lastingness. In the same category of a flooring option, you may still need to compare their cost, thickness, and aesthetic quality.
Furthermore, you may consider where you’ll install the flooring. Is it a high-traffic area or a moisture-prone space? Is the floor or foundation strong enough to hold heavy-duty flooring? Thinking about these nitty-gritty details may help you select the suitable flooring option for your home.
Apart from the mentioned considerations, you may also refer to your house’s existing color, material, and design. Think about which will complement your fixtures and furniture. Consider the first flooring options you’ve in your rooms, outdoor spaces, or bathroom. Select the type that provides comfort without requiring you to spend much for better results.
