Flooring Basics

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Carpet is the less expensive option. Install cost can also be cheaper with carpet since flooring, like laminate, can usually just be covered as opposed to torn up. People who live in apartments would greatly benefit from this flooring choice since it absorbs sound. The downside to carpet is it’s ability to easily stain. This can be prevented by buying a more expensive make made out of stain-resistant fibers. In addition to staining, cheaper carpet will show wear quicker. 

Linoleum is inexpensive and is a more durable option compared to vinyl. Your choice of color will stay consistent throughout the entire floor. Linoleum can be cut by hand, which is beneficial for complicated layouts. This material needs to be resealed each year, which is a cost to consider. Also, linoleum can scuff and cannot stay wet for long periods of time. 

Luxury vinyl is a versatile option. Styles can mimic wood or tile. Vinyl is durable, but not as durable as linoleum. It is also easy to clean and comfortable. On the downside, vinyl is difficult to repair. Know when choosing your flooring, that low end vinyl may discolor overtime. If you choose the tile option, be aware that moisture can get into the seams between the tiles. 

Laminate is another flooring that is budget friendly. Laminate is easy to clean, durable, and does not stain. Companies offer many options when it comes to color and design. With laminate, you are able to get the look of natural wood without the cost. Unfortunately, laminate is able to be scratched, but is unable to be refinished. This means you would have to replace your flooring sooner than other options. When buying laminate, be sure to purchase brand name items as cheaper options tend to separate. Also, if installing in a high moisture area, get a kind that is engineered for this environment. 

 Tile has many benefits. It is durable, as well as water and stain resistant. There are many color, texture, and size options to choose from. You can even chose a tile designed to look like wood. With tile, comes grout lines. These become noticeably dirty over time and can be difficult to clean. Low quality options may chip if something is dropped on it. Be careful with fragile items, as they will most likely break if you drop them on the tile. 

Engineered flooring is nearing the more expensive side. In comparison to solid wood, engineered flooring shrinks and expands less. This type of flooring is able to be installed relatively quickly since it comes prefinished. This also allows the stain and protective finishes to be consistent. Unlike solid wood, engineered flooring can typically only be refinished a max of 2 times. Be sure to buy name brands, as other options may have voids in the core, which weakens the surface. 

The classic flooring option is wood. Wood flooring is a classic option and is long lasting that can be refinished many times, allowing you to give it a new look down the road. Wood flooring is susceptible to moisture/humidity, causing it to shrink and expand if not properly taken care of. When choosing the type of wood, it is important to remember that softer woods (douglas fir, pine, redwood) will dent easier than a hardwood (oak, beech, walnut, mahogany, maple). 

Don’t forget to take your pets into account when choosing your flooring. Carpet is generally the worst flooring choice for pet owners. If you are absolutely bound to choosing carpet, choose a one without loops so that your animal’s nails do not snag the carpet. Luxury vinyl is a good option since it doesn't scratch or stain easily. It can be cleaned with little effort, as well. Laminate is not the best choice for pets, since dogs in particular will often slip on the flooring, though it is doable. Tile is a very good option. It rarely scratches or stains. Do make sure to have rugs around your home so your pets have something comfortable to lie on. Engineered and wood flooring, are very desirable, but only so so for pets. The wood can stain and absorb smells. If you do decide with engineered or wood flooring, keep something under your pets water bowl to avoid stains and regularly trim their nails to minimize scratches.