Apart from the interiors and the colors of the walls, one element which can make a huge impact on the overall look of any new home is the floor, because if the flooring is right it is going to last you much longer. That said, choosing the right surface is not only a daunting task but an expensive one as well (believe me!).
It’s been almost a year since we agreed to sell our little home and move to our dream home on the nature reserve. We purchased a new build which meant (again) we were able to start from scratch and style it exactly how we wanted, so we’ve had swatches coming out of our ears.
To make matters simple, here is a complete lowdown on the common types of flooring, and how to select one that suits your space and budget.
Hardwood
Hardwood is one of the most common types of material used in flooring primarily because it gives a natural look and is available in a variety of designs. The only drawback is it is expensive and can get damaged by leakage if proper care is not taken. However, because of its beauty it finds a place in the kitchen or bedroom of many homes.
Vinyl Plank
For budget buyers, vinyl plank flooring is a great option as not only it looks great but is easy to install as well. Moreover, this flooring is available in a number of colors, sizes, and thicknesses, including some padding, which makes it perfect for moisture-prone areas of the house. Moisture-proof versions of vinyl plank flooring are well suited for kitchens, bathrooms, and the basement since they are easy to clean and maintain. It can easily be replaced with lino flooring too.
Laminate
Laminate flooring consists of composite wood which is pressed together at high temperatures to form a sheet. It comes in so many colors and textures that people often confuse it with real wooden flooring. This makes laminate a very affordable alternative to hardwood, for those who are aware of the downside of hardwood floors. Laminate flooring is water-resistant, easy to maintain and clean, and doesn’t get scratched very easily. Laminate is ideal for places of high humidity like kitchens and bathrooms.
Tiles
Tiles are some of the most commonly used tiles for flooring. Thanks to their elegance and durability, tiles are no longer relegated to just bathrooms and kitchens, but to the entire home as well. Heavy traffic areas and those with moisture content are best covered with tiles. Flooring tiles can be custom cut and can be installed in different configurations on the floors, in various shades and colors.
Carpets
Carpets that come in neutral colors are always a popular choice and reign supreme in the living room of many homes. Investing in a good quality carpet will ensure that you have a trendy cover on your floor which is going to look good for many many years. These days stripes and patterns have been woven in, which adds additional visual interest to the floor. Remember to use an underlay to prevent the carpet from slipping around.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood, expands and congrats less than solid hardwood, thereby allowing installation to any area of the home, including the basement. Moreover, it is significantly cheaper than solid hardwood, easier to install, and is available in a larger variety of colors and types. It is scratch and stain-resistant and can be laid over an existing concrete slab to help mitigate potential moisture issues. A hardwood floor will add warmth and beauty and will increase the value of your new home.
From a plush carpet to a polished wooden floor, one thing to keep foremost in mind when choosing flooring is its flexibility, since what is underfoot can make or break your living space. So what you choose for your flooring, will have a major influence on how the whole house feels and looks.