Flooring
A common component of many remodeling projects is flooring. Whether it’s replacing existing flooring or choosing flooring for a new room or space, there are many components to consider.
Choosing flooring that’s right for you
Flooring options come in many shapes, sizes and budgets. Some things to consider when deciding which option is best for you include:
- Consider who will be using the space- Do you have small children or pets or are you empty nesters? Who will be using the space can make a big difference on potential wear and tear on the floor.
- Levels of Maintenance- Different products require different degrees of maintenance. Think about your lifestyle and what is going to work for you.
- Think about how long you plan to stay in your home- Choose a floor option that’s going to give you the longevity that you need so you are not constantly in a position to have to replace your floors.
- Take into consideration colors and patterns-Think about colors and patterns not only in terms of aesthetics, but also functionality; also consider what normal wear and tear will do to the flooring after a period of time.
Types of Flooring
There are more flooring options available today than ever before. Depending on the use and room, it’s important to consider all of your options.
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood comes in many wood species, plank widths and stain colors. You can get it prefinished and ready to install or you can have it sanded and stained on site. When it’s well cared for it can last a lifetime, it fits the needs of most rooms and all decorating styles, it’s considered very desirable and is a good investment.
Laminate Flooring
Designed to look like real wood or stone, laminate flooring is easy to maintain and less expensive than traditional hardwood. Great in basements (as long as they are dry!) they can be installed with glue or without.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is available in two forms, as individual tiles or in a sheet. The more wear layer (a topical coat placed on the flooring surface) you buy, the better the floor will hold up. Vinyl flooring is easy to maintain with frequent sweeping and a twice a month rinsing with warm water and a cap full of non-sudsy ammonia.
Ceramic Flooring
There is a tremendous variety of ceramic and stone to choose from. They all have different maintenance requirements so be sure to ask before you fall in love with a particular tile. With proper installation, ceramic flooring can last 50 years. One important consideration with ceramic and stone is that they have no “give” so think about the amount of time you will be spending in that room.
Carpeting
There are many choices out there in regards to composition of material, density, color and pattern. Plush or Berber, thick pile or tight weave are some of the options to consider. The under carpet pad you choose is important. The better the quality, the better the carpet will feel and the longer it will last.
Preparing for the Installation
When preparing for the installation of your new floors, pretend as if you’re moving. Take everything off the floor and walls and move everything out of the room. Avoid waiting until the night before to move things.
Keeping your New Floors Looking New
70% of the dirt that comes into your home is fine sand on the bottom of your shoes. Keeping sand out and off of your floors is important for the longevity of them. Keep a rug or mat with a rough texture outside every exterior door and a rug with a fine texture on the inside of every exterior door. If you really want to keep your floors looking new, take your shoes off at the front door, it works.