How to Floor People with Your Flooring
Everything you need to know about the popular types of flooring and their respective pros and cons.
The floor is a home's largest surface, and the ideal sort of flooring for your home is influenced by your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Each style has its own set of advantages, and deciding which is ideal relies on the needs and location of each area.
Wood, engineered flooring materials, vinyl, tile, and carpet are all popular flooring options. Learn about the most popular flooring options, the finest qualities of each material, and the best applications for each, as well as total flooring costs.
Hardwood flooring
Hardwood flooring is made from a single solid piece of milled wood and is made entirely of solid wood. Maple, oak, walnut, and cherry are among the most popular hardwoods. Many property purchasers prefer it because of its versatility and quality.
However, it is one of the more expensive flooring materials available, and it requires regular upkeep to keep it looking excellent, such as using a professional hardwood floor cleaner once a month and putting a fresh coat of finish every three to five years. Hardwood flooring costs $5 to $10 per square foot on average when installed.
Pros
Boosts the worth of your home.
It's possible to refinish it more than once.
There are a lot of choices.
Reliable and long-lasting.
Cons
Expensive.
In high-traffic locations, it is susceptible to scrapes, scratches, and dents. It is also susceptible to moisture damage.
Usage in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements is not recommended.
Engineered wood flooring
Engineered wood flooring has the appearance of real wood but is less expensive than solid wood. A thin layer of hardwood is glued to a high-quality plywood base to create the floor. It's just as tough as solid hardwood flooring and can last just as long if properly maintained.
Engineered wood flooring is a popular choice for DIYers because it is easy to install and saves money. Installed engineered wood flooring costs $4 to $9 per square foot on average.
Pros
-DIY-friendly
The top layer is made of real hardwood.
Moisture and water resistance is higher than that of genuine wood.
Less prone to warping.
Multiple installation methods.
Cons
It is not possible to refinish the item more than once.
Not resistant to fading.
The sound of hollow underfoot can be caused by a wide range of quality.
VOCs are released.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to carpet for homeowners who don't want to spend the money on hardwood or tiles.
The floors are made out of a particle board wood base with a wood or tile photo on top, all protected by a clear plastic coating. Laminate flooring is relatively easy to install, and it comes in a variety of textures and colors. Installed laminate flooring costs $3 to $7 per square foot on average.
Pros
When compared to wood, it is less expensive.
Cleaning is a breeze.
Scratch-resistant.
There are a variety of colors and styles to choose from.
Cons
Moisture damage is a possibility.
Chips easily.
It does not have the appearance or feel of wood.
There's a hollow sound when you walk on it.
Vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring is exceptionally water resistant and will not be harmed if water is left on the surface for an extended period of time. It's made of plastic and comes in plank, tile, and sheet form.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are two types of luxury vinyl flooring that have recently acquired popularity due to their durability and range of styles. The average cost of installation varies with form, ranging from $1.50 per square foot (sheet vinyl) to $6 or more per square foot (LVP and LVT).
Pros
Kitchens, baths, laundry areas, and basements all benefit from it.
Durable.
DIY-friendly, water- and fade-resistant.
There are numerous design options available.
Simple to maintain.
Cons
LVP and LVT is more expensive than laminate
Plastic has a worse return on investment than wood.
Tiled flooring
For damp spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens, tile flooring is a common choice. Ceramic and porcelain are the most used tile materials. Tile is water-resistant, long-lasting, and available in a wide range of shapes and colors.
The cost of installation varies by material; for example, glazed ceramic tile is less expensive than porcelain tile. Ceramic tile costs $2.50 per square foot, while porcelain tile costs $3 to $10 per square foot.
Pros
Waterproof.
Sturdy.
Lasts long.
Cons
Expensive.
It's difficult to set up.
Prior to installation, a significant amount of preparation work is required.
Can get cold and slippery.
Stone flooring
Natural stone flooring, such as granite, marble, travertine, and sandstone, is popular in both indoor and outdoor settings. Stone, like ceramic and porcelain, is highly long-lasting and waterproof.
The finish of the stone dictates how much maintenance is required. Most types of flooring, however, cannot compare to the natural beauty and quality of stone. The average cost per square foot is between $5 and $10.
Pros
Bold and stylish.
Waterproof.
Lasts for a long time.
Cons
Expensive.
It's difficult to set up.
Prior to installation, a significant amount of preparation work is required.
It gets icy and slick.
It's difficult to maintain.
Linoleum flooring
Linoleum is a long-lasting, environmentally friendly flooring produced from linseed oil and cork. Linoleum flooring is both inexpensive and simple to install. The flooring is available in a number of colors and styles and is available in sheet form. It is durable (made of elastic materials) and can last for decades if properly cared for.
Linoleum is becoming increasingly popular as flooring makers introduce new colors and designs. Linoleum flooring installation costs range from $4 to $8 per square foot on average.
Pros
Inexpensive.
Eco-friendly.
DIY-friendly.
Colors and designs are available in a number of options.
It needs minimal upkeep.
Cons
Does not raise the value of a home.
Gets dented or cut easily.
When exposed to sunshine, it may darken or turn yellowish.
Not recommended for places that are prone to dampness.
Carpeted flooring
Carpeted floors are a popular flooring choice among homeowners, particularly in bedrooms. It's available in a wide range of colors, materials, and textures. Carpet technology has progressed over time, and today's carpets are stain-resistant. It's also the most affordable flooring option available.
The cost of carpet installation is determined by the type of material used and the thickness of the carpet padding. Carpet installation costs range from $2.50 to $10 per square foot on average.
Pros
Soft and warm to walk on.
Multiple colors, materials, and designs are available to visually warm up the space.
Soundproofing is a plus.
There are stain-resistant variants available.
Cons
Cleaning is difficult.
Staining is a possibility.
Allergy sufferers should avoid this product.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flooring for your home is more complicated than picking the most attractive or the cheapest option. Moisture, durability, ease of care, and price are all important considerations to consider. Because a new floor is an investment, you should choose one that balances your demands and your taste. To guarantee that the project is completed to your satisfaction, make sure to discuss your ideas with your chosen flooring contractor in detail. To ensure that your task is done effectively, we recommend looking through the best flooring installation firms.