Choosing flooring is far more complicated than just finding the best-looking product. Several other factors–moisture, durability, costs, and more — greatly influence your decision. Here are 5 factors you should consider before making a flooring decision that is right for you and your home.
Choose the right flooring for high moisture environments
If your floor will be installed in a basement, bathroom or other area with high moisture then you may need a flooring that is suited for such an environment. Concrete, ceramic, porcelain or vinyl would work in this type of space.
Durability
If your household has pets, children or any other need for a durable floor then you need to consider flooring that has superior wear resistance. Try a durable material like ceramic or porcelain tile. Laminate, vinyl plank are good options, as is carpeting.
Consider your budget
What you are able to spend per square foot will also factor in to your decision making process. Laminate, ceramic and porcelain tile can be found at more economical prices. Solid hardwoods, engineered woods and some more attractive laminates are more of a mid-price point and the more exotic hardwoods and engineered wood options, plus high quality premium laminate and luxury vinyl flooring products will be the most expensive options.
Who will be installing the flooring?
Installing yourself will definitely save you money. Laminate and vinyl plank flooring tend to be the easiest to self-install. Both are floating floors. Ceramic and porcelain tile installation can be done by the homeowner but it is not as easy as it appears. Wall to wall carpeting is a tough project for any home owner to do correctly, and is best to hire a professional in order for the carpet to lay perfectly flat and to hide any seams. The same can be said for nailed down hardwood and engineered wood floors, a professional installation is your best option.
Maintaining your floors
If low maintenance is your primary concern any form of resilient flooring is best — vinyl tile, sheet vinyl or vinyl plank. Laminate would be a close second, but it needs special cleaning methods. Hardwood is higher on the maintenance scale and it’s best to keep high-traffic areas covered with throw rugs and runners.
