Whether you’re looking to redesign your entire home or spruce up a single room, new flooring is a great way to get a fresh look. Maybe it’s just time to replace your old, marred, or stained floors to increase your home value. When you’ve decided flooring is your next step, keep these few things in mind before you rush out to buy.
1- Figure Your Budget
As with any project, you need to know your budget before shop. Flooring prices vary greatly depending on material, color, and pattern. Hardwood flooring can be extremely costly, whereas vinyl and laminate start off relatively easy on the bank account.
When thinking of how much you want to spend, be sure to factor installation in. Some types of flooring are simple enough to install to do it yourself. Other types are better left to the experts, which adds to the cost of your new floors.
2- Location and Traffic
Some rooms have higher foot traffic than others and may require a more durable or versatile flooring material. This is especially true for rooms such as the kitchen, bathroom, and entryway. Other rooms such as the home office or den may get little traffic and be safe for less rugged flooring.
Another thing to keep in mind is how you use your space. It almost goes without saying that you wouldn’t want carpet in your kitchen or bathroom. Tiles may be too cold and hollow for a bedroom or den. Vinyl and laminate flooring are versatile and fit nearly any room, especially when supplemented with area rugs.
3- Maintenance
How much time do you have to keep up with your new floors? You’ll need to ask yourself this question when researching your flooring options. Vinyl plank and tile floors are often very easy to clean and require little extra maintenance. Laminate floors require some extra effort as they require a special cleaning solution rather than a wet mop. Carpet requires vacuuming regularly and even occasional deep cleaning.
4- Durability
Of course, you’ll want a flooring material that lasts years without needing replacing. But certain habits and lifestyles can affect just exactly how long your floors will last. Tile is an extremely durable option, as are vinyl and laminate. These materials work best in bathrooms and kitchens, as they hold up against moisture and humidity very well.
Kids and pets can be hard on things, and flooring is no exception. Laminate is a great option for pets as is good against scratches and damage from dropped items. If stains are an issue, it’s best to avoid carpet as much as possible.
5- Visual Appeal and Aesthetics
If you have a certain theme you are going for, look for colors and patterns that fit. Flooring comes in hundreds of different colors and patterns. If you like to make changes to your room’s aesthetics often, it may be best to go with a more neutral scheme on the floors. For smaller rooms, stick with lighter colors to open the area up more. There’s definitely a perfect option for any look, from country charm to modern industrial.
