Whether you want to do it yourself or hire a contractor, a new flooring job is simple. Flooring companies have many resources for homeowners to help them make the right choice and get the job done well.
Their resources begin with buying guides that help customers understand the different types of flooring they have to choose from. They include articles on determining floor durability, preparing for installation, and installing trim.
Hardwood
Whether you work with a contractor or do it yourself, installing new flooring is challenging. Some homeowners even believe that hardwood flooring makes the room look bigger.
According to flooring professionals like those at Lumber Liquidators, this flooring type is also an excellent choice for those with allergy concerns, as unlike carpets, wood floors do not trap dust, dirt, or pollen. This flooring also offers a range of styles, including wide planks for a rustic, old-world feel or hand-scraped finishes for a more distressed look.
Moreover, hardwood is naturally fabricated, so it does not emit as many chemical toxins into the air as other flooring types, such as vinyl or synthetic fibers. This type of flooring is also easy to clean and maintain.
The species of hardwood you choose plays a significant role in its appearance and performance. Some species, such as oak or hickory, are more complex and durable than others.
Laminate
A multi-layer synthetic flooring product, laminate floors feature a core layer of plywood or high-density fiberboard topped with an image layer that can mimic everything from exotic wood to stone and concrete. The top image layer is usually “registered embossed” to further enhance the resemblance of natural wood.
Laminates are very durable and scratch-resistant, thanks to their tough external layers. They are easy to clean and resist water damage and fading from sunlight, making them great for homes with kids or pets.
However, laminates are not waterproof; even a small failure in the seal can allow moisture to enter the core and cause swelling or warping of adjacent boards. Therefore, resources like LL Flooring reviews recommend using a damp-proof membrane when installing laminate flooring. Also, because laminates are not made of natural wood, they will sound and feel slightly different underfoot and may not provide the acoustic benefits of hardwoods.
Vinyl
The most affordable of the resilient flooring types, vinyl can also come in various styles to suit your taste. Its durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance make it an excellent choice for many areas of the home.
Some vinyls are even designed to look like hardwood floors.
Its only drawback is that it emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during installation. Some people have reported experiencing brief irritation from these gasses, and respiratory issues may have more severe reactions. Fortunately, you can reduce your exposure by leaving windows and doors open while installation is taking place. Additionally, you can reduce VOC emissions by selecting a solution that installs without adhesives.
Tile
Tile may be an exquisite addition to any home, whether used for the flooring in your living room, kitchen backsplash, or bathroom accent wall design. It’s also durable, resisting dents, scratches, and stains, and is less likely to fade during sun exposure.
However, it can be cold to the touch and doesn’t hold heat well. And while it is water-resistant, it’s not as drop-resistant as other options.
Although tile may be used practically anywhere in the house, bathrooms and kitchens are where it is most commonly found. It’s best suited for areas with a high degree of foot traffic. It’s available in various colors, patterns, and textures and can be laid to stretch the space visually. Additionally, it can be quite reasonably priced, particularly in comparison to natural stone. And it’s an eco-friendly option because it can be made from recycled materials. Like all floors, tile requires a stable floor structure to prevent cracking.
