Select Flooring Based on Room Function
Flooring for different rooms should be chosen based on their function. Flooring for the kitchen is typically non-slip or easy to clean, vinyl, laminate, or tile are good options. For family living rooms , solid wood and engineered wood are popular choices. Carpet is still a popular choice because it’s warm and inviting. Bedrooms are best suited for carpet because you will be spending a lot of time barefooted. Other options include wood, laminate, and vinyl
1. Hardwood flooring types
Hardwood flooring is versatile in its look and can complement all types of interiors. It’s long-lasting and will withstand up to five refinishes to remove surface scratches. Leslie Saul of Leslie Saul & Associates, Inc. agrees that engineered or natural plank wooden floors can be used everywhere in the home when properly finished. Cleaning is easy too. Leslie recommends a Swiffer wetjet for a job made easy.
Hardwood flooring can be installed in a bathroom or laundry room, but may not be suitable for other areas due to moisture exposure. To prevent fading and warping, hardwood flooring should be kept out of direct sunlight and away from dust and dirt. A lacquered finish is more durable than an oiled finish, but if scratched will need to be sanded and re-lacquered.
2. Engineered wood flooring types
Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that is made from different types of wood that has been engineered to be more stable than regular wood. Engineered wood flooring can be installed over a concrete subfloor and looks just like solid wood. Some types of engineered wood flooring are flat enough to install on top of old hardwood floors, saving you the work and expense of ripping out the old floor before installing the new one.
3. Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is an affordable flooring option for homeowners who prefer an alternative to carpet but want to avoid the cost of hardwood or tiles. The floors consist of a particleboard wood base topped by wood or tile photo beneath a clear plastic protective layer. Laminate flooring is a type of flooring made from several layers of material, most often wood or plastic. It is inexpensive to install and easy to clean.
Laminate flooring is susceptible to moisture damage and chips easily.
4. Real stone flooring
Stone flooring can be used in many different places in the home, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Stone flooring is a durable investment that can last for many years. Stone flooring should be installed on a sturdy subfloor and sealed every six months.
5. Tile
Tile is a durable, stylish and contemporary type of flooring that can be used in many different spaces. Tile has many options for pattern, color, size and texture that can require an interior designer or architect to figure it out! Tile is easy to clean and low maintenance, but can be expensive if not chosen carefully.
When choosing tiles for high traffic areas like a mudroom, consider the surface finish carefully.
6. Rubber flooring
Rubber flooring is a cheap and practical option for homes. It can be bright and colorful, making it a fun addition to play spaces and more. Rubber flooring is easy to install and needs a polished finish every six months. It’s important to be cautious using rubber flooring in areas likely to attract staining from oils and fats.
Rubber flooring is a natural and environmentally friendly option. Rubber flooring is moisture resistant and easy to clean. Rubber flooring is a relatively low-cost option. Rubber flooring has a variety of applications, including bathrooms and kitchens.
Rubber floors are a good choice for kitchens and decks because they are better than most woods for these areas. Rubber floors have low VOCs, which make them environmentally friendly. Rubber floors are resistant to fire and sound, making them a good choice for quiet areas.
Costs vary depending on the type of rubber flooring, but typically it costs between $5-$14 per square foot.
