Flooring is a big consideration when building or renovating a home. Cost, durability and style are all key factors. Plus, one type of flooring won’t be perfect for the whole house. What do you do?
We’ve had a look at the different flooring options – and weighed up the pros and cons – to help you with your decision.
CERAMIC TILE
There is a huge choice of ceramic designs available so you can bring colour, pattern and texture to your house.
PROS: Ceramic is a highly durable material so the perfect choice for high traffic areas. It’s also easy to clean with water and a mop so a great partner for kitchens, bathrooms and hallways.
CONS: The main downside with ceramic is that the colour may fade in the light. Plus, they can be a bit slippery when wet.
CONCRETE
A lesser considered choice, but concrete is a great flooring option. Particularly if you love the industrial and modern trend.
PROS: Another super resistant material, concrete will be very difficult to scratch! The smooth and flat appearance of concrete gives clean lines – and makes it nice and easy to maintain.
CONS: Any damages that do happen will be difficult to repair. Concrete flooring will be cold on your toes, so avoid in your bedrooms. Use rugs within communal areas to add some warmth.
HARDWOOD
Hardwood flooring is a popular choice – the natural grain gives character and beauty to your home.
PROS: Wood floors are a great investment as they can last time a long time, plus sanding and polishing will make them look brand new again.
CONS: Often there is a high cost with real wood installation. Wood will also easily dent if you drop something, and the surfaces can scratch from chairs or toys. Water will stain too. Care is required to keep wood looking good!
ENGINEERED WOOD
This wood hybrid is a popular choice. Using a top layer of real wood for a great aesthetic appeal, and a manufactured layer underneath for cost-effectiveness and added strength.
PROS: This will look like hardwood once installed – but at a more affordable cost. The engineered layers provide more resistance to water and heat, so can be used throughout the house. Can also be used with underfloor heating.
CONS: As with wood, this flooring is susceptible to scratches and dents which can be expensive to repair. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials when cleaning as this may damage the surface.
LAMINATE
Designed to resemble real wood, laminate is a popular choice for those who want a wood-effect, but without the budget.
PROS: Installation is relatively easy and inexpensive. Cleaning is a doddle too as you only need to sweep and mop to get it looking good again.
CONS: Laminate may suffer from water damage, so best avoided in bathrooms. Also, the cheaper costs mean it is not as durable so you will need to replace more often.
MARBLE
This is a luxurious choice – smooth and elegant! Marble can certainly bring the wow-factor to your home.
PROS: Marble is high-end so it will add value to your house. Polish will bring out a shine and a classy look.
CONS: Care is needed with marble as it can chip easily. Upkeep is expensive and intensive and be sure to use the right cleaning products to protect the natural stone.
CARPET
Carpet is a reliable and inexpensive flooring option. And it has been for decades! Some consider it out of fashion, but there are so many options you will find something to suit you.
PROS: Soft and warm underfoot, carpet is a cosy choice particularly for bedrooms. You can find a variety of colours and styles, and budgets too. Plus, a quick vacuum and the occasional shampoo and it will look like new!
CONS: A spilt red wine is difficult to shift! Carpet may also wear down overtime so it is not as durable as some of the other options.
Have we helped you find the perfect choice for your project?
Which flooring did you choose?
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