Choosing the right flooring for your home can seem overwhelming. We’ve discussed something similar before and here we are again, this time focusing more on comparing floor types based on some important criteria. You want to combine personal taste along with functionality too and you also want your floor to last for years. Flooring installation specialists are a good source of information, but before you visit a flooring store there are a few points to consider.
First consider the climate that you live in. If your climate is dry and moderate then any type of flooring will work well for you. Soft flooring like carpet will cause a problem in hot and humid climate because mold and mildew can form between the fibers and cause problems for those with allergies. In a warm climate hardwood or tile would be better choices in order to avoid expensive steam cleaning and sanitizing every few months.
Next consider the traffic moving through the room that you are flooring. The kitchen is a high traffic area in any home so a soft flooring like carpet that stains easily would hardly make sense. Hardwood, tile, and linoleum are all good choices for the kitchen. Homes with small children and pets should consider tile and linoleum in the kitchen instead of hardwood to avoid scratches and dents. If you really like the look of hardwood, but need a more reasonably priced option, laminate can give you the look of hardwood at about half the price.
Your living room or family room is probably where you spend most of your time. It is easy to create a custom look with hardwood or carpeting. Carpet will provide warmth and insulation, but only lasts about ten years. Hardwood or laminate will last a lot longer but will do nothing to insulate the room from cold or noise. Always keep in mind that hardwood is also vulnerable to scuffing, which can cause hundreds of dollars to repair.
Durability is a big concern when installing flooring. If you want a floor that will last for many years, or you are considering putting your home on the market then hardwood, laminate, or tile are your best options. Real estate specialists say that hardwood floors, real or faux, add value to any home, and tile is becoming much very popular among minimalists and buyers who like a clean modern look.
Whatever flooring option you choose, make sure to have it installed by a qualified flooring professional. Many home owners try to install flooring themselves, but if a mistake occurs during installation you will have to pay someone to come out and fix the problem. Occasionally the entire floor will have to be redone costing you twice what you had originally intended to spend. A well installed floor is not only beautiful, but could be one of the best investments that you will ever make.
Leave a Reply