Nowadays, heading to your local hardware store to select new flooring can cause a major headache. From stone to laminate, the options are more varied than ever. Fortunately, this ultimate guide will help you find one that fits your personal taste, lifestyle, and budget.

how-to-pick-your-flooring-carpet

Carpet
Pros

  • Comes in a variety of styles and color
  • Delivers thermal resistance to retain warm air
  • Softens slips and falls

Cons

  • Requires a high level of maintenance
  • Easily attracts dirt and stains
  • Has a shorter life span than other options
how-to-pick-your-flooring-tile

Porcelain Tile
Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Increases the value of your property

Cons

  • Pricier than other types of tile
  • Installation is time-consuming
  • Grout makes upkeep difficult
how-to-pick-your-flooring-hardwood

Hardwood
Pros

  • Durable and requires minimal cleaning
  • Increases your home’s resale value
  • Available in several types of wood

Cons

  • Installation can be costly
  • Scratched surfaces will need to be refinished
  • Can require an area rug
how-to-pick-your-flooring-vinyl

Vinyl
Pros

  • Stands up well to heavy foot traffic
  • Less expensive to install, and easy to maintain
  • Broad range of colors and patterns

Cons

  • Can be damaged by sharp objects
  • Colors can fade with direct exposure to sunlight
  • Cannot be refinished, and must be replaced
how-to-pick-your-flooring-tile

Laminate
Pros

  • More affordable than regular hardwood
  • DIY installation is easy
  • Easy to maintain and clean

Cons

  • Susceptible to staining and warping from standing water
  • Lower return on investment compared to regular hardwood
  • Louder than carpet or vinyl

How to find the best flooring for your needs

  • Location
    Are you putting the flooring in a high-traffic area or a space that’s prone to moisture, like a bathroom or a laundry room? It wouldn’t be wise to put carpet in a bathroom or vinyl in a sunroom.
  • Aesthetic
    The flooring should match your interior design scheme. Consider the themes of each room and the colors to help you select the correct material.
  • Longevity
    How long are you expecting the floor to last? While hardwood lasts for years with minimal maintenance, carpet gets worn out faster and requires heavy cleaning.
  • Maintenance
    How much wear and tear will your flooring receive? If you have little ones or pets running around, you’ll want to avoid carpet and stick with a material that hides dirt and stains.
  • Budget
    This is perhaps the most important factor. It’s best to keep an open mind! Be sure to measure the space, and price shop for a few other materials.

Upgrading your interior can be a headache, but knowing how to select the right type of flooring for you will make a world of a difference!

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