Is it time to renovate your home? If you are starting a renovation project, flooring should be among the primary concerns. The good news is that you can choose from a long list of available flooring options. However, that might make your decision difficult because you don’t know where to start the selection process.
In this article, I selected the top flooring material options for your home. You will discover the advantages and drawbacks of each material, which should ensure you make the right call.
Hardwood
Hardwood has been one of the most popular flooring materials for decades. You can choose from different wood types ranging from cherry to oak. The shade selection is also impressive, which will ensure that the material fits any décor.
You can place the hardwood floor on any surface. It can be in your living room, but you can also add it to basements, patios, etc. The material is very durable, although you shouldn’t expose it to constant moisture.
You can also consider engineered hardwood flooring, which comes at a more affordable price than solid wood. The material might not be as durable, especially since you can only refinish it a couple of times, but it is a smart, low-cost investment. Engineered wood flooring will look attractive and secure a surface that is easy to clean.
Pros
- A simple installation process
- Versatile and suitable for different areas
- Fairly easy to clean
Cons
- Prone to dents and scratches
Vinyl
You might think that vinyl flooring is an unusual choice, but there are good reasons why you should consider it. For starters, I believe they are perfect for people living a busy life today. These floors are simple to clean because all you need is a mop and water.
If you are a DIY expert, you can install vinyl effortlessly. The only thing to consider is that it might emit a sound when installed over a subfloor. I will reveal a secret – place an underlayer, and you won’t make any sounds when walking.
Vinyl is an affordable material, but make sure to go with a high-quality option. Although it is vulnerable to scratches, vinyl is resistant to moisture. That makes it suitable for high-traffic areas, especially if you consider that it is warmer than tile flooring.
Pros
- Easy to install for DIY experts
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Suitable for rooms with plenty of traffic
Cons
- Vulnerable to scratches
Ceramic Tiles
https://pxhere.com/en/photo/934575
You will often see ceramic tiles in baths, kitchens, and laundry areas. That is because this material is durable and resistant to moisture. I don’t like slippery tiles, which is why I recommend treating them with an anti-slip finish.
Ceramic tiles are long-lasting and available in a wide choice of colors and patterns. They can fit different decors, and this versatility makes them a great choice for small and big homes. The market offers options like porcelain, glazed ceramic, quarry tile, and terracotta. You might want to check radiant floor heating because tiles can be cold for your feet when walking barefoot.
Pros
- Excellent for bathrooms and kitchens
- Durable and long-lasting
- A wide selection of colors and patterns
Cons
- It can become slippery if not installed right
Other Flooring Materials Worth Checking
The upper three are my top choices, but here are some other flooring options worth considering:
- Laminate – it resembles engineered wood in construction, and you can choose between tiles or planks. It looks like wood, but it is much cheaper and not as durable.
- Linoleum – a resilient material made from renewable materials. It feels soft to walk over it, but it is prone to denting, especially with sharp items like high heels.
- Bamboo – a renewable material that is durable and long-lasting. It’s great for bedrooms and living rooms, but it is not resistant to moisture to place it in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Concrete – while it might not be the best aesthetic option, it can be great for commercial properties and anywhere where you need the highest resistance to moisture and heat.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Don’t hesitate to contact an expert to suggest a solution that will fit both your budget and expectations!
Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.
Feature image:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/builddirect/2775219502
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