Choosing the right flooring for your home can be an overwhelming decision—not only is it a major investment, but the type you choose impacts your home’s style and long-term value. Homeowners should take time to consider several important factors before finalizing their decision.
Hardwood
This is becoming one of the hottest, most versatile looks on the market. It’s being installed in foyers, kitchens, family rooms, living rooms and master bedrooms. With exotic woods from teak to tigerwood to purple heart, hardwood flooring options are more unique than ever. When choosing the type of wood best for your home, talk to a trained professional who can explain the pros and cons of each kind. For example, bamboo is very trendy this year, but did you know it is extremely fragile and scratches easily? Solid oak is the most popular and durable, but make sure you research all types. Don’t forget, hardwood floors increase the value of your home more than any other floor covering.
Laminate
Laminate flooring provides the consumer with a strong, sophisticated, affordable and simple to install floor. Laminates offer exceptional durability, superior stain and scratch resistance, and are easy to maintain. They are ideal for high traffic areas where you want a wood look but not the maintenance or expense of real hardwood. Since laminate products are fully engineered, they are more precise and more durable. Laminate comes in wood, ceramic or other special design options to offer homes a warm and rustic look, however, it does not have natural grains like hardwood does.
Carpet
Carpet is usually chosen because of aesthetics, performance or budget. The beauty of carpet is evident in the overwhelming selection of styles, patterns and colors in which it is offered. A dark color can draw the room in while a light color opens the room up. Remember the colors around us can have a powerful psychological effect and go a long way toward defining the personality of a room. Carpet is much more durable than it used to be because of stain-resistant coating and new, tougher fibers. Carpet is an investment you can protect; regular vacuuming and periodic cleaning greatly increase the life of your investment.
Ceramic
Ceramic is a forever floor that can make a stunning statement to all who enter. Adding decorative accent tiles makes a one-of-a-kind fashion statement for your floors, walls and backsplashes. You can easily create your own distinct patterns to fit your personality by mixing two field colors together or by mixing the tile size for a distinct pattern. Tile can also be used on a larger scale to create a grand effect and the appearance of a spacious room. Ceramic is water resistant and easily repairable, so it’s great for bathrooms and laundry rooms as well.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a very versatile and inexpensive choice for floor covering. While it is most often used in kitchens, baths and laundry areas, vinyl has come a long way in pattern selection and design in recent years. New technology has put the spotlight on authentic texture, lower gloss levels and down-to-earth designs.
Q. What are the most important factors to consider before purchasing flooring?
A. Consider your lifestyle, budget, the purpose of the flooring and space, your décor, and comfort before making a decision.
Q. What different types of flooring match different lifestyles?
A. Different types of flooring require different types of care. Someone who leads a busy lifestyle may want to go with a low-maintenance flooring option such as laminate, which closely mimics the look of hardwood, but is easy to clean. Carpet is also a low-maintenance option, but once it gets dirty it may require professional cleanings. Families with children may want to consider stain-resistant carpet because it’s softer than wood or laminate, but still relatively easy to clean. If you have pets, wood flooring makes it easy to clean up after “accidents.” Take time to weigh your options and figure out the best choice to fit your lifestyle.
Q. What are the most budget-friendly options available, and which options are on the higher-end?
A. Cost is a major factor when picking out flooring. As the economy has tightened, there has been an influx of budget-friendly options. There are products that are fantastic for every budget. After establishing how much you’d like to spend, price out your options. Generally, on the hardwood scale, American Cherry is on the high-end, and Red Oak is typically the least expensive. The price range for laminates is similar to hardwoods, but because laminates are low-maintenance and durable, this type of flooring may be a better long-term investment.
Q. What are the most popular types of flooring on the market today?
A. Patterned and textured carpets are very popular right now to add color and texture to bedrooms and living areas. We are seeing more hand-scraped and distressed hardwood as well as wide plank wood as well. Consumers are also getting creative, using tile and stone styles mixed together with different sizes and pieces.
Q. What options are most popular for kitchens right now?
A. There are so many flooring options for the kitchen, but hardwood, stone and tile typically are the most popular choices.
Q. What tips can you offer on choosing the right hardwood floor shade?
A. It all depends on the style and décor of the room you’re interested in putting it into. Medium-colored tones are the most popular right now, and many homes are starting to enjoy darker floor colors. Be sure to match your home’s décor when choosing flooring. Choose flooring that will still look good after you change the furniture, paint the room, etc
Q. How do you choose an area rug for your hardwood floor?
A. The area rug should offer a nice contrast. If you have stylish hardwood (exotic or hand-scraped) it is generally suggested to choose a stylish broadloom (standard carpet) and have it bound into an area rug. If you choose a light hardwood—or one without much contrast in the pattern—it is suggested you choose an area rug with some color and style to add to the room’s appeal.
Q. Pick one type of flooring that in your opinion requires the least amount of upkeep.
A. Hand-scraped wood—it’s wonderful, stylish and hides wear and tear.
Q. Any eco-friendly flooring options you would suggest?
A. There are several different “green” flooring options today, but consider trying carpet from reclaimed fibers or wood from renewable forests.
