Flooring can have big impact on a design. It's a huge part of the color scheme and overall style of any space. With so many types of flooring on the market these days, it can be very overwhelming when choosing which flooring is best. Let's break down the four most popular types of flooring so you will know how to choose the right type of flooring for you.
The very popular LUXURY VINYL PLANKS:
Pros:
Budget Friendly- With tons of options you are sure to find vinyl flooring within your budget.
Water Resistant- Vinyl flooring is water resistant which is a great option for bathrooms and kitchens.
Scratch Resistant- Not all vinyl flooring is scratch resistant but there are options available with this feature.
Easy to Install: Vinyl flooring is probably the easiest to install out of all the flooring options and can even be installed over existing flooring. This can be a game changer for some, that don't have the time, patience or money in their budget to demo their existing floors.
Cons:
Not as Valuable: While these floors may look great, they may not necessarily increase the value of your home.
Durability vs. Quality: While these floors can be quite durable, how durable they will be largely comes down to the quality you purchase. I recommend purchasing the best quality Vinyl floors your budget will allow.
Appearance: While there are very beautiful vinyl flooring options out there, if you are going for an aged or more organic looking style these may not be the right floors for you.
LAMINATE:
Pros:
Budget Friendly: Just like vinyl floors, Laminate can be much a more budget friendly option. But again, the quality can vary depending on the amount you're able to spend.
Durability: Laminate flooring can be quite durable depending on the option you choose and can be great for high traffic areas.
Easy to install: Installing laminate flooring can definitely be an intermediate level DIY.
Appearance: Laminate can have a more realistic appearance and texture in comparison to vinyl.
Cons:
Longevity: Laminate flooring can last quite some time but can is recommended to be replaced after 30 years.
Not Water Resistant: Most laminate is not water resistant and it's not recommended to be mopped.
ENGINEERED HARDWOOD:
Pros:
Longevity: Engineered hardwood has a great life span and can last a lifetime.
Durability: Most engineered hardwood is quite durable and will hold up quite well in high traffic areas if properly taken care of.
Installation: It's not as easy to install as luxury vinyl or laminate but it can be a DIY project.
Refinishing: Some engineered hardwood can be refinished just like hardwood.
Appearance: Beautiful, organic appearance.
Cons:
Expensive: Engineered hardwood is not as inexpensive as luxury vinyl or laminate but it is certainly cheaper than hardwood.
Is not scratch resistant: Just like hardwood, engineered hardwood is not usually scratch resistant.
Not Waterproof: Unlike luxury vinyl and laminate, engineered hardwood is not water proof or resistant. This will limit where you can use it in your home.
HARDWOOD:
Pros:
High Quality: Hardwood is your highest quality flooring on the market
Value: It will always increase the value of your home
Longevity: Hardwood flooring can last a lifetime.
Refinishing: Hardwood can be refinished.
Durability: Hardwood can be durable but it largely depends on the type you select. If you're looking for a high traffic area, you definitely do not want to purchase a soft hardwood. This will easily get dented and scratched.
Appearance: Beautiful, organic appearance.
Cons:
Expensive: Hardwood is not a budget friendly flooring. The price will vary, but your cheapest hardwood will never be as inexpensive as luxury vinyl or laminate.
Installation: Installing hardwood is not a DIY project. You will most likely need to hire a professional to install it.
That about wraps it up! Each type of flooring have a place and one is most definitely not better than the other. Knowing the environment and purpose of the room is critical in selecting the right flooring for you.
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