When it comes to designing or remodelling your home, flooring can become one of your biggest investments.
But every room serves a different purpose which means the flooring for each has to be chosen with care to ensure it performs well. That means choosing a warm and inviting material that is both durable enough to handle daily use and matches your decor.
If you’re looking to purchase new flooring, consider how each room is to be used to ensure you make an informed investment. Here are some of the best options.
The following flooring options are ideal for specific room types.
One of the most durable flooring materials, hardwood can last many years in any application, whether in living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms.
It employs different types of wood such as maple, oak and exotic varieties like purpleheart and Brazilian cherry. It’s ideal for homeowners looking for natural materials and performs well in high-traffic areas such as hallways.
Solid hardwood flooring combines sophistication with nature in ways that few other materials can. High-quality hardwood is preferred by homeowners as it adds value to any property.
While hardwood requires some maintenance, there are many finishes and sealants that can significantly extend its life. It’s also easy to repair in case of scratches, and sanding and refinishing it will make this flooring look as good as new.
However, being a natural material, hardwood contains numerous pores that can absorb water. That’s why it’s not a good idea to install it in kitchens or mudrooms where humidity is generally high and can compromise hardwood’s structural integrity.
Engineered wood flooring looks like solid wood but isn’t manufactured in the same way. A thin veneer displays the wood grains and has 3 to 12 layers of plywood underneath. This makes it sturdier and more affordable than other wood flooring options.
It comes in many patterns, widths, breadths and wood types, and can be nailed down like traditional wood flooring. You can also choose to have a floating floor on top of a cork or foam underlay, or have it glued down. Alternatively, some engineered wood comes with a tongue-and-groove system which forms a tight seam without nails or glue.
The material works well in all rooms where solid wood can be used and doesn’t dent or scratch easily.
Available in numerous styles and colours, carpeting is an attractive addition to many homes. It’s easy to install, and its warm and soft appeal makes it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and family rooms. It’s also comfortable to walk on and absorbs noise, making it suitable for upper-level rooms in homes with two or more floors.
However, it shouldn’t be used in kitchens or bathrooms as spills can ruin the material and result in stains that are difficult to get rid of. These damp areas can also harbour bacteria. Fortunately, carpet is fairly easy to maintain via regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning by a professional.
Vinyl flooring is made of a flexible material that is softer underfoot than hardwood or tile. It’s made using a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) applied over a layer of felt, which creates a durable material.
It comes in different forms including sheet vinyl which can be cut to size and is glued to the subfloor. You can also purchase vinyl planks that do not need adhesives for installation. They come in two variants based on their methods of installation:
(a) click together
(b) peel and stick
Vinyl stands up well to heavy foot traffic and is warm and comfortable to walk on. It’s also appropriate for areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms and wet rooms as it can stand up well to moisture.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are among the longest-lasting flooring materials. They require little upkeep to keep looking great and resist moisture which makes them suitable for areas that experience spills and water such as laundry rooms, kitchens and bathrooms.
When sealed, tiles become resistant to allergens and scratches which can benefit, respectively, allergy sufferers and pet owners.
Besides being practical, tile flooring can be customized as it is available in a variety of colours, designs, textures, styles and sizes to fit any room. As it doesn’t retain heat, it’s ideal for homes located in hotter regions. However, professional installation is needed as improperly applied grouting can result in tiles becoming loose.
The flooring types mentioned here are just some of your options. Look through home improvement and decorating websites and magazines to search for others that may be more suitable for your space. But remember: not all flooring materials serve the same function so be sure to choose the right option for each room. By investing in the best product, you make certain you pick something that lasts and offers great value on your investment.
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