New flooring is a great idea for any space. But its durability must be a non-negotiable factor for both homes and commercial spaces.
Yes, there is plenty of durable flooring on the market, which is why it is important to choose your material wisely.
The most important factor to consider is your lifestyle. To make that choice easier, The Reno Superstore explores some popular flooring choices and how they suit different lifestyles.
Let’s have a look.
Top Flooring Options According to Your Lifestyle
It is always wise to take your time when it comes to choosing the best flooring material for your home. That starts with valuing your lifestyle needs above all. Here are some options to consider.
1. Hardwood Flooring
This is one of the most popular and durable flooring options. Hardwood doesn’t just add to the look of your space, it is also a great choice for high-traffic areas. So, in homes, you can use it in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Please note that hardwood floors will get scratched, so, if you have a busy household with pets, keep this in mind.
If you prefer low-maintenance flooring, this is not your best choice. While hardwood is not high maintenance, it does require periodic upkeep. Moisture and hardwood also do not mix, so they should not be installed in bathrooms or kitchens.
Hardwood flooring comes in various thicknesses, with high-traffic areas requiring thicker flooring. For commercial spaces, wooden flooring is a great option for offices, music studios, ballet schools, and basketball courts. But, make sure your floors are protected from water or moisture damage.
If you live in a high moisture area – that is to say, in an area that gets a lot of rainfall or humidity – it is better to reconsider this option. Also, make sure your hardwood floors are installed by professionals.
Note: hardwood flooring is expensive, so make sure you have an adequate budget.
2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Love the look and feel of hardwood but not the price? Engineered hardwood is a perfect flooring option for both homes and offices as it is less expensive and more resistant to water.
It is created by applying intense pressure to several layers of materials to bond them together. Because of this manufacturing process, it is less likely to warp and shift than hardwood flooring, making it a fantastic choice for locations with changing humidity levels.
Its ‘click & lock’ system is also faster and easier to install, although we always suggest that you hire The Reno Superstore’s professional installation services.
Make sure you learn how to choose engineered hardwood flooring for the best shopping experience. If you have pets or experience a lot of traffic in the area of installation, consider a thicker wear layer.
Please note: unlike traditional hardwood flooring, which can be refinished and sanded over and over to restore its looks, engineered hardwood can only be refinished once or twice, depending on its thickness.
3. Porcelain Tile Flooring
One of the toughest flooring materials is porcelain tile. Its durability makes it one of the most widely-used flooring products as it is resistant to wear & tear, stains, and scratches. It is also a fantastic option for bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas because it is moisture-resistant. Porcelain tiles can also be put on walls.
Looking for a fuss-free, low-maintenance floor or wall material? Porcelain is simple to maintain and clean with just a damp mop or cloth.
In terms of price, they are an investment and require professional installation, which adds to the overall cost. However, porcelain tile flooring is a great choice for both homes and commercial spaces. If you are shopping for the latter, it is a good idea to understand a thing or two about commercial flooring.
4. Laminate Flooring
This is another well-liked and reasonably-priced option that is great for a variety of lifestyles. Laminate flooring can also mimic hardwood (and other flooring materials) quite faithfully, so you don’t have to give up on your dreams of hardwood-like floors.
Because laminate flooring is scratch-resistant and can withstand moderately heavy foot traffic, it is a good option for high-traffic areas of your house. It may also work in some office settings but is not the best choice for public buildings.
In terms of maintenance, only routine sweeping and sporadic damp mopping are needed. Additionally, it is less likely to stain than carpet, which is good for homes with kids or animals.
5. Vinyl Flooring
If you require flooring on a tight budget but also with durability and water resistance, vinyl flooring is the answer.
For high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, it is fantastic because it is extremely durable and can withstand vigorous foot traffic. Due to its high water resistance, it can withstand spills, moisture, and humidity without warping or other damage. This makes it the perfect choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other damp areas.
It is simple to maintain and clean vinyl flooring with a damp mop or cloth. Compared to hardwood or tile, vinyl flooring is typically less expensive. For homeowners who want to update their floors without going over budget, this makes it a great option.
6. Concrete Flooring
Concrete and cement flooring are popular choices in urban homes. They offer an industrial yet elegant finish and are quite affordable.
For high-traffic areas like entryways, basements, and garages, cement flooring is a fantastic option because it is extremely durable and can withstand constant foot traffic. It is customizable to suit a variety of styles and design aesthetics. It can also be stained, embossed, or polished to give it a unique appearance.
Cement flooring is easily cleaned with a damp mop or cloth and requires little maintenance. It is most suitable for homeowners who value dependability and simplicity of upkeep. Due to its exceptional durability and ability to withstand spills and stains, it is ideal for families with kids and pets.
Concrete flooring can be a great, long-lasting option for business owners, too, especially if they use heavy machinery. Since they are easily and affordably repaired, it is a cost-effective solution in a commercial setting.
However, if you live in a cold place like Toronto or Mississauga, concrete flooring can feel extremely cold and uncomfortable as it offers no insulation.
There are a number of factors to take into account when selecting the best flooring option for your home, including your lifestyle, financial situation, and aesthetic preferences. You can choose the ideal option for your needs by taking durability, upkeep requirements, and the comfort level of each type into account. No matter which option you choose, making the right decision will improve your home’s appearance and feel. It will also make it more convenient and comfortable for you and your family to enjoy.