What Are the Pros and Cons of Popular Flooring Options?
Deciding on the material you will use to lay a brand new floor in your home is no mean feat. With an array of different options, it's not as simple as heading down to your local hardware store and picking up something that looks pleasing to the eye (although that is definitely part of the process). Because re-laying a floor is both costly and time-consuming, not to mention that you will live with the results for years to come, you really need to have a complete understanding of what materials will work best based on your particular circumstances. Luckily for you, this post will offer you the low-down on several of the more usual options that people go for so that when the time comes to put your money where your mouth is, you can avoid the dreaded buyer's remorse!
Tiles
When most people think of a floor, the image of a beautifully tiled floor usually comes to mind before anything else. While floor tiles are undoubtedly an excellent option for many locations around your home, they do have a few downsides that ought to be explored before you make the plunge. Here’s what you need to know:
Pros
They're durable enough to last a long time before they might need replacing (and even then, it's usually because the underlying material has deteriorated rather than the tiles themselves).
You have loads of patterns, styles, materials, and sizes to choose from.
They can be easy to clean and maintain (although not all of which we will cover in the con section).
Tiles are hypoallergenic options that reduce the chances of dust collecting and causing reactions among those with allergies.
Cons
Certain materials are more expensive and can be damaged easily. However, this is generally limited to materials like terracotta varieties.
They aren't well-suited to colder climates as they can feel cold underfoot.
They require special tooling to cut and lay.
Hardwood
Besides a well-thought-out choice of tile, hardwood is arguably one of the more beautiful options you can utilize to create a rustic aesthetic that feels amazing underfoot.
Pros
There is something utterly timeless about using wood, which has been the material of choice for millennia.
When well cared for, it can last generations with very few issues.
Hardwood flooring increases home value purely because it is considered a high-quality material.
Cons
It's expensive, and depending on where you live, it can be prohibitively expensive, eating up a large portion of any budget you have set aside for home renovation.
You will need an expert carpenter to cut and lay the boards out in a pleasing fashion.
Wood is far more vulnerable to water damage than the other options on this list.
You will need to learn how to care for it correctly, including regular refinishing processes to keep it looking fabulous.
Vinyl
Vinyl has been around for quite a decent amount of time by now, but it has unfortunately gained a reputation as a somewhat dated option compared to others. This came about thanks to its extensive use in the 1970s and 1980s, when it was an extremely popular choice. However, new options can look very modern and be affordable to boot, making it a worthy option for those on a budget.
Pros
It's an incredibly durable material that can withstand even the most challenging family requirements.
When laid correctly, it is waterproof, making it ideal for places where water and moisture abound, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
Easy to maintain, easy to clean…the golden pairing when it comes to your floor!
You have a massive variety of designs to choose from, making it anything but dull.
Cons
It can be susceptible to indentation and scratches, causing it to become pretty tatty-looking over time.
Extreme heat or cold can cause vinyl flooring to expand or contract, leading to damage.
Some vinyl flooring products may release harmful VOCs, impacting indoor air quality.
Carpet
Good old carpet…the go-to option when you don't know what else to go for, and you're on a budget. Nevertheless, as with all the options thus far, it has both amazing qualities that make it an excellent choice, as well as some downsides that ought to be considered before you head out and spend a fortune.
Pros
It feels incredible underfoot and will keep your delicate soles warm and nourished as you walk around.
It's a great sound insulator, making it an excellent option for upper levels.
With a myriad of designs and hues, you can go as restrained or garish as your heart desires!
Carpet flooring is often more affordable and more straightforward to install than other flooring options.
Cons
As you might imagine, carpet is far more prone to ugly stains and odors if not properly cleaned.
It takes more effort to keep it looking as good as new than all the other options in this post.
Carpets trap all kinds of allergens, making it a terrible choice for those with severe allergies.
Colors can wear and fade over time, requiring you to either live with the fading or spend money laying a new carpet.
When it comes to your flooring preferences, choice is rarely the issue. However, while you have numerous options to choose from, they all come with pros and cons that need to be assessed before you make your final decision.