Sometimes, the signs that it’s time for new flooring are subtle: a squeaky floorboard, worn wood, stained carpets, or other small inconveniences of everyday life.
But how do you know what to ask for when calling local flooring companies? Should you match the existing wood, or try something completely different? Is one flooring material better than another?
These questions are more common than you might think. Regardless of material quality, every flooring type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
That’s why Creighton Floor Covering is here to clarify the pros and cons of different flooring types, and provide tips on material placement.
Wood Flooring
When properly cared for, wood flooring can last for decades while providing a warm, inviting appeal that suits almost any theme.
Compared to other flooring materials, wood flooring can also increase your home’s value after installation because the material is in high demand among buyers.
When it comes to maintenance, wood flooring only requires a good sweep and mop. It also traps fewer allergens than other flooring materials.
However, because wood flooring is in high demand, it can be more costly to install. While it is fairly low-maintenance, wood can be prone to scratches and dents from excessive foot traffic. You may also need to clean it more often if you have pets or children because hair and dirt can build up.
Wood flooring can also be noisy underfoot without rugs to help dampen the sound.
Rooms to Avoid With Wood Flooring
Wood flooring is extremely vulnerable to water and can warp, buckle, or rot when exposed to moisture for long periods. Avoid rooms with high humidity, moisture, or a higher risk of leaks.
- Basements
- Laundry rooms
- Bathrooms
Vinyl Flooring
The good news is that most vinyl flooring options resist water completely. While vinyl is not real hardwood, it can replicate the look while providing a softer, quieter feel underfoot.
Vinyl is also easy to clean and is a much more affordable option if you still want the look of a hardwood floor.
However, environmentally aware homeowners should keep in mind that vinyl is made from synthetic PVC plastic.
Vinyl can also be more costly to repair because it cannot be sanded down or refinished. Instead, you would need a full replacement.
Rooms to Avoid With Vinyl Flooring
- Rooms with direct, intense sunlight: UV rays can cause vinyl coloring to fade over time.
- High-end historic or luxury homes: Vinyl flooring can lower resale value.
- Commercial buildings with heavy equipment: Heavy equipment can tear or gouge the softer material.
Carpet Flooring
Carpet is primarily chosen for comfort rather than aesthetics, and it can be both a blessing and a curse in homes with children.
The material is soft and warm on bare feet, making it appropriate for bedrooms, especially in winter. Carpets can also help cushion falls and diminish noise from little footsteps racing around, which can be an advantage in a lively household.
Here’s the downside, though: carpet reacts poorly to moisture and allergens and can be difficult to clean, which can shorten its lifespan.
Pet accidents can sink deep into the fibers and padding, so you have to watch for staining. Too much moisture damage can also result in mold or mildew.
Rooms to Put Carpet
- Bedrooms
- Home offices
- Living rooms
Tile Flooring
Porcelain and ceramic tile are not just beautiful but also highly durable.
Tile acts as a strong barrier against moisture, rendering it an ideal solution for wet zones. Unlike carpet, tile is allergy-friendly and very easy to clean. However, that also means the material can be rather cold to the touch.
One of the biggest downsides is how difficult it is to install and replace. Tile is heavy and labor-intensive, so you often have to hire a professional.
You also have to monitor grout upkeep, as it can wear down over time. Grout lines can stain if you don’t clean and reseal them regularly.
Rooms to Use Tile
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Mudrooms
- Foyers
- Laundry rooms
Out of All the Local Flooring Companies, Creighton Floor Covering Is the Way to Go
Creighton Floor Covering is a family-owned and operated company with over 50 years of experience, and positive reviews are always pouring in.
If you know it’s time for new flooring in your home but aren’t sure which option fits your budget best, we’re happy to provide recommendations. During installation, we’ll keep you up to date on the process and any unexpected issues that may arise.
Feel free to explore our gallery to see if anything piques your interest, or schedule an appointment today so we can perform a thorough inspection and provide the most affordable quote.
