If your next home improvement project is to upgrade your floors, be sure to shop around first to find the best fit for your home. There are several types of flooring materials, so let’s look at a few of the most common.
Vinyl is a Popular Flooring Material
Modern vinyl flooring is much improved over older vinyl. It is available in different styles and patterns and can mimic the appearance of hardwood at an affordable price.
Vinyl an excellent choice for areas where moisture or humidity is a concern. It is water-resistant and works well in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. It only requires sweeping and mopping to keep it clean.
Installation is easy whether you choose vinyl sheets, tiles, or planks. Most types can be installed over existing floors and vinyl is very reasonably priced.
Laminate Options for Flooring
Laminate flooring is made by layering plastic laminate over plywood or a fiberboard/melamine resin base. This type of flooring can resemble any type of material, but it most often mimics wood. Laminate flooring is water-resistant, sturdy, and will resist warping.
The coating that helps protect the flooring from scratches and scuff marks makes it a good choice for kitchens. Maintenance is easy with regular sweeping and mopping. Laminate flooring is simple to install and makes for an easy project for DIY homeowners.
One of the downsides to this type of flooring is that laminate cannot be refinished. If it sustains damage, the flooring will have to be replaced. It is hard underfoot and becomes slippery with moisture or spills. It is not ideal for bathrooms because of the high humidity in those areas, but it is a budget-friendly product.
Hardwood Flooring Materials for Your Home
Due to its natural beauty, hardwood flooring has long appealed to homeowners. Hardwood flooring looks great with any type of home decor.
This type of flooring is more expensive than other options, but hardwoods are a good investment. They are durable and fairly easy to install. Hardwoods can be refinished several times to keep them looking new. They require a bit of care and upkeep to look their best.
Hardwood floors are not the best options for basements, bathrooms, or other humid areas. Excess water can cause warping or discoloration.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile can be used in any home. The tiles are strong and durable and stand up well to foot traffic. Ceramic is water-resistant and very well suited for bathrooms, laundry rooms, or anywhere moisture could be a problem.
Ceramic offers almost endless options for colors and textures. This flooring can be installed by the homeowner with a bit of patience.
Ceramic tiles are hard and can be uncomfortably cold in cool weather. Grout can become discolored easily, but some colors and sealants minimize the appearance of stains.
Carpet as Flooring Materials for Your Home
Homeowners usually choose carpet because of its sound-reduction qualities. Today, carpeting is available in a wide selection of colors, patterns, and even textures.
Depending on the materials, carpet is inexpensive and very comfortable for bare feet. Because it muffles sound, carpet is a popular choice for bedrooms. Installation is easy for most DIYers.
The downside of carpet is that it requires frequent cleaning to look its best. It is not a great choice for areas with moisture or where staining might be a risk. Other types of flooring materials are better in spaces like the bathroom and kitchen.
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