As homeowners, we spend a lot of time on making sure that our homes look good. From furniture to wall art, we obsess over minute detail, and are willing to spend a lot of money on making sure that our homes stay up to date and looking good. The fact is, however, that many of us neglect to look at one vital part of maintaining our homes — that is, flooring. Our floors tend to take a beating. Everything from human feet to pet’s claws, as well as everyday spills and cleaning chemicals, can put our floors through a regular beating. But flooring isn’t just about the practical aspect, although that’s certainly important. Flooring is also about appearance. Nobody wants to look at a dirty home. At the same time, it can be impossible to have all of your floors spotless 100% of the time. With that being said, some types of flooring look clean for a longer amount of time than others. Furthermore, some types simply last longer than others. Maybe you simply want your flooring to get the job done; or perhaps you’re concerned with your floors reflecting a particular style. Whether you’re looking put flooring down in your entire home or one room, let’s look into the types of flooring available, and their advantages and disadvantages.
Hardwood Flooring: The Classic
It’s undeniable that hardwood floors are both classic and attractive. Yet some are initially concerned about the amount of work that goes into hardwood floor installation. It’s true that hardwood floor installation requires a good amount of work, but if you hire the right professionals there is little that you as a homeowner need worry about. Additionally, a hardwood floor installation may be a good idea if you plan on staying in your home for a long time. A hardwood floor installation is a long-lasting, long-term investment. At the same time, this could also be a good idea for those looking to turn their home into an investment. Some of the benefits of hardwood installation include its inoffensive nature; that is, if you wish to sell your home someday, potential buyers are likely to appreciate hardwood floors. In fact, 47% of those surveyed prefer wood floor materials. There are many hardwood floor types available, suitable for different purposes. According to a Houzz survey, hardwood floor typically covers 34% of a homeowner’s floors. This is certainly no small number. Hardwood floors could be right for everything from bedrooms to kitchens. You just have to think creatively!
Carpet Flooring: A Comfortable Standby
While hardwood is classic, carpet has quickly become a newer favorite. There are many reasons to love carpeting. For one thing, it comes in many different styles. Whether you want plush carpeting or even shag carpeting, you have many selections to pick from. Carpet can be neutral for those wishing to please everyone, or colorful and patterned for people who want to get a little crazy. Unlike hardwood, carpet can lock in heat for those chilly mornings when you don’t want to get out of bed. This one reason why 38% of those surveyed report wanting to carpet their master bedrooms. Another reason why many love carpeting is its ability to be cleaned by vacuum cleaners. Hardwood floors and tiles are not as vacuum friendly, and often require a broom. It’s really a matter of preference in that case.
Tile Flooring: Creative And Practical
Tile floors are beloved by everyone. Beautiful and creative, they’re also easy to clean — again, through brooms, but often with mops as well — and have many different options. Frequently, tiles are chosen in warm colors. However, cool tones are rising in popularity. You will most likely see tiles in bathrooms or kitchens. Very rarely do you see tile in living rooms or bedrooms — but who knows? You’re free to think outside the box.
No matter what you choose, remember that flooring is meant to last you a long time. So think carefully!