Construction Renovation Articles

Trending Flooring Types for a Stylish and Durable Home Makeover

Interior
May 23rd, 2023
construction articles

Choosing the right flooring is one of the most important decisions regarding home makeovers. Not only does it affect the overall aesthetic of your space, but it also impacts the functionality and durability of your floors. With so many flooring options in the market, deciding which one to go for can be overwhelming. We will discuss each flooring option's characteristics, pros, cons, and popular trends to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're renovating your home or building a new one, this article will provide valuable insights on the latest flooring trends and what to consider when choosing the right flooring for your space.

Hardwood Flooring

A solid piece of milled wood is used to create hardwood flooring, which is composed completely of solid wood. Popular hardwood species include cherry, walnut, oak, maple, etc. It is a popular option for many home buyers due to its versatility and great quality. It is, nevertheless, one of the more expensive types of flooring. It takes ongoing maintenance to keep them looking great, such as hiring a specialist to clean your hardwood floors once a month and applying a new finish every three to five years.

Pros

  • Increases home value
  • Can be refinished multiple times
  • Many options available
  • Strong and durable

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Can incur scrapes, scratches, and dents in high-traffic areas
  • Susceptible to moisture damage
  • Not suitable for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood flooring looks like real wood but is less expensive than solid wood. A thin layer of hardwood is bonded over a high-quality plywood base to create the floor. It is as strong as real hardwood flooring and may last as long if properly cared for. Engineered wood flooring is an excellent alternative for do-it-yourselfers since it saves money on installation fees.

Pros

  • DIY-friendly
  • Has real hardwood top layer
  • Greater resistance to moisture and water than real wood
  • Less likely to warp
  • Multiple installation methods

Cons

  • Can’t be refinished more than once
  • Not fade-resistant
  • Wide variation in quality
  • Can sound hollow underfoot
  • Emits VOCs

Laminate Flooring

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is an economical option for homeowners who desire an alternative to carpet but do not want to pay the high prices of hardwood or tiles. The floors have a particleboard wood foundation with a wood or tile picture on top, all protected by a transparent plastic coating. This flooring is incredibly easy to install, and it comes in a variety of textures and colors.

Pros

  • Inexpensive compared to wood
  • Easy to clean
  • Scratch-resistant
  • DIY-friendly for experienced homeowners (and if the subflooring is in good shape)
  • Many styles and colors are available

Cons

  • Susceptible to moisture damage
  • Chips easily
  • Does not look and feel like wood

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is exceptionally water-resistant and will not be damaged even if water remains on the surface for a lengthy period of time. It is made of plastic and is available in plank, tile, and sheet form. Because of their durability and range of forms, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) have lately acquired appeal. 

Pros

  • Good for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements
  • Durable
  • Water- and fade-resistant
  • DIY-friendly
  • Many design choices are available
  • Easy to maintain

Cons

  • LVP and LVT are more expensive than laminate
  • Lower ROI than wood

Tile Flooring

Tile Flooring

Tile flooring is common for wet spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens. Ceramics and porcelain are the most frequent tile materials. The tile is water-resistant, long-lasting, and available in various shapes and colors. The installation cost varies according to the material; glazed ceramic is less expensive than porcelain tile.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Durable
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Hard to install
  • A lot of prep work is needed before the installation
  • Cold and slippery

Stone Flooring

Natural stones like granite, marble, travertine, and sandstone are popular indoor and outdoor flooring alternatives. Stone, like pottery and porcelain, is incredibly durable and water resistant. The stone's finish determines the care required to preserve the floor. However, stone provides natural beauty and quality that most other forms of flooring do not.

Pros

  • Bold and elegant
  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Hard to install
  • A lot of prep work is needed before the installation
  • Cold and slippery
  • Difficult to maintain

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum is a long-lasting, environmentally friendly flooring material manufactured from linseed oil and cork. Linoleum flooring is inexpensive and simple to install. Sheet flooring is available in a variety of colors and designs. It is robust (made of elastic materials) and may survive for decades if properly cared for. Linoleum is becoming increasingly popular as flooring makers provide new colors and styles. 

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Eco-friendly
  • DIY-friendly
  • Available in a variety of colors and patterns
  • Requires little maintenance

Cons

  • Does not increase home value
  • Easily dented or cut
  • May darken or turn yellowish when exposed to sunlight
  • Not suitable for moisture prone-areas

Bottom Line

Choosing the greatest flooring for your home isn't as simple as picking the one that looks the nicest or is on sale. Moisture, durability, maintenance, and affordability are all important considerations. Because a new floor is an investment, your selection should balance your demands with your taste. Our professional floor installation and repair contractors at  Stenco Constructions are here to provide you with the best service in NYC. Don't wait until it's too late. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

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