How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home’s Style and Needs
Flooring is the one feature that has the biggest impact on the overall feel of a room, yet it’s also one of the most overlooked when it comes to design and finishing.
We all love to shop for gourmet kitchen appliances, or find the perfect color palette for the walls. But how do you shop for flooring? It’s every bit as visual as the color on your walls. And considering it’s a sizable investment, it’s worth a second look to ensure you choose the right flooring for your home. You won’t be changing your flooring every few months, so it’s worth the time to ensure you fall in love with it before you install it.
Where do you begin?
Start with a few tips to choose the right flooring
Imagine walking through your front door, and falling in love with it every time. That’s why paying attention to the design is so important. It’s the difference between feeling elated or having apprehension whenever you look at your final design.
Part of its personality – you have to go with where your heart leads. The other part centers around selecting the right flooring for your needs.
Space – consider the room’s shape and size. How much traffic moves through the room? How much light enters through the windows? This is where a few searches online can help. Find rooms that closely resemble your own, and see what flooring type you prefer.
Style – are you a little bit country? Do you love modern minimalism? Or maybe you love sleek sophistication. Different flooring types create a different base for what you’re trying to create. But don’t ignore what’s best for your lifestyle. White carpet with a houseful of pets and kids is a road to disaster.
Type – choosing a flooring is always a blend of personality and lifestyle. You have to install what you love. You also have to install what makes sense. Exotic hardwood may be beautiful, but it will be a disaster in a child’s bathroom, where the tub overflows regularly. Maybe luxury vinyl planks would make a better choice. There are many ways to get the final look you desire. This is where talking with a flooring expert can provide solid advice.
Budget – the good news today is that you can access whatever flooring type you desire within your budget. Just be flexible with your goals to ensure you get the highest quality you can afford. With today’s technology, manufacturers work hard to give you the best choices possible at every price point.
Installation – want to save money? Consider a do-it-yourself flooring option. If this is the case, realize there may be a learning curve to ensure you install it correctly. A successful job gives you the longest life possible. If you opt for a professional install, be sure to select a trusted resource to ensure it’s installed correctly the first time. This also guarantees your warranty will be valid for the life of the product.
Maintenance – what does maintenance look like to you? Daily vacuuming? Weekly scrubbing? Occasional refinishing? Each flooring type has its own unique needs. It’s best to research each type thoroughly before you select it, especially if you’ve never had it before. If you aren’t prepared for the upkeep, it may be a shock once it’s installed. It’s the easiest road to buyer’s remorse.
Choosing flooring materials that meet your needs
Of course, there are many different flooring materials available today. Chances are you have an idea of what will best suit your wants and desires.
Doing a little research can help you get comfortable with different flooring materials. There are many ways to achieve the results you’re looking for.
Hardwood – very few flooring materials have stood the test of time, like hardwood. That’s because it’s a natural product that stands up well over time. And when it’s time for a change, you can sand it down and refinish it for a new and updated look. Keep in mind that hardwood is one of the most expensive flooring choices you can install. It can be dented and scratched, and may not work well if you have a busy household with lots of activity. It also doesn’t work in high humidity situations, or any area where moisture is an issue. Skip the hardwood if you’re refinishing your basement.
Laminate – laminate gives you the look and feel of hardwood, but with a hard topcoat that adds more functionality to the surface. It’s also more affordable, and with its click-and-lock installation system, even a do-it-yourselfer will have good luck. Many homeowners select laminate for their basement build-outs because of its flexibility as well as its good looks.
Luxury vinyl planks – while sheet vinyl is still an incredible option for budget-savvy homeowners, many are turning to luxury vinyl planks because of its upgraded looks. It can be installed anywhere with its water-resistant features. Some manufacturers have even made waterproof planks. If you have a busy household where stills are a part of life, luxury vinyl planks may give you the protection you’re looking for.
Carpet – carpet continues to be both comfortable and cost-effective. If you are looking for warmth and noise control, you’ll never go wrong with carpet. While it might not be perfect for your highest-traffic areas, it’s often the first choice for bedrooms and playrooms. You’ll love it in your media room, where sound is an issue. Have a work-from-home office? Carpet gives you a unique style.
Tile – one of the most versatile flooring options is tile. Whether you settle on ceramic or porcelain, you’ll be able to create any look you desire. Tile makes waterproof flooring that’s perfect in the bathroom. Porcelain tile is extremely durable and resistant to scratches and dents. You can find it at every price point, making it a reliable flooring for any homeowner.
Which flooring is right for your home?
While many homeowners start their search by price, it’s equally important to look for the flooring that best suits your needs. Maybe it’s worth a little extra today, knowing you won’t have to replace it for years.
Choosing the right flooring for each room in your home is a little bit personality and a little bit functionality. What best suits your needs?
There isn’t a perfect choice – that’s why many flooring materials are available.
Instead, it’s about making the right choice for you.
How can we help you choose the right flooring for your home?