So, you’ve decided to give your home a fresh new look. One of the most impactful ways to do this is by replacing your flooring.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your lifestyle and budget? Look no further because you’ve found the complete guide to choosing the best flooring for your household!
Picking the Perfect Flooring for Your Family
The best flooring for your home depends largely on your family’s lifestyle. If you have young kids or pets, you’ll want something durable and easy to clean. If you’re looking to increase your home’s value, engineered wood is a great choice. But if you need something waterproof and easy to maintain, then luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a fantastic option.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the two.
Engineered Wood
Engineered wood offers a classic look and can significantly increase your home’s value. However, it’s susceptible to water damage and may not be the best choice for homes with pets or young children.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Luxury Vinyl Plank is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. LVP mimics the look of wood or stone and is durable, making it a great option for homes with kids or pets.
Other popular flooring options
If neither LVP nor engineered wood seem like a great fit for your family’s needs, check out the options below.
- Hardwood provides a timeless, natural look but can be expensive and requires regular maintenance.
- Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean, but can be cold and hard underfoot.
- Carpets are soft and comfortable, but can be difficult to clean and may harbor allergens.
- Laminate is affordable and easy to install, but can be less durable than other options.
Preparing for your Flooring Installation
The installation timeline for new flooring and baseboards can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the area and the type of flooring you want to install. But for an average 2,200 sq. ft. home, new flooring and baseboards can usually be installed in 5 to 8 days, including the demolition of existing flooring.
Before installation begins, there are a few things you need to do to prepare your home. Below is a preliminary checklist.
Clear the Area
Remove all furniture, rugs, and other items from the area where you’ll be installing the new flooring. Clearing the area is essential for a successful flooring installation. It provides the installer with an unobstructed workspace, minimizing the risk of damage to your belongings and ensuring a clean, even finish.
Prepare Pets and Children
If you have pets or small children, make arrangements for them to be elsewhere during the installation. But if you can’t relocate your pets or children, create a safe, enclosed space away from the installation area.
Discuss Concerns
Talk to your flooring installer about any concerns you have, such as noise or odors. Discuss any concerns as early as possible to avoid inconveniences. By doing this, you’re helping the installer understand your expectations and preferences. This allows them to tailor their service to your needs.
Be Available
Even with careful planning, unexpected issues can arise during installation. You may need to make decisions about changes to the plan, such as adjustments to the layout or the choice of materials. So, be sure to make yourself available.
Do Subfloor Preparation
Your project may require removing old flooring, leveling the subfloor, and disposing of materials. The specific requirements will depend on factors such as the condition of your existing flooring, the type of new flooring you’re installing, and the overall state of your home. If you’re unsure about any of these steps, it’s best to consult with a professional flooring installer.
Consider New Baseboards
For a complete refresh, consider installing new baseboards to match your new flooring. Baseboards are often overlooked but can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of a room. By replacing your old baseboards with new ones that complement your new flooring, you can create a cohesive and polished aesthetic.
Get Ready for Possible Acclimation
Some hardwood flooring and laminates need to acclimate to the home’s environment before installation. Acclimation is the process of allowing flooring materials to adjust to the temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors of your home. This is especially important for hardwood flooring and laminates, which can expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Flooring
Your Budget
Be sure to factor in the cost of installation, as well as any necessary preparation work.
Professional Installation
While you can install some types of flooring yourself, it’s often best to hire a professional for a quality job.
Foot traffic
High-traffic areas, such as hallways and living rooms, will need a more durable flooring material.
Climate
If you live in a humid climate, you’ll want to choose a flooring material that is resistant to moisture.
Style
Consider the overall style of your home and choose a flooring material that complements it.
By taking these factors into account, you can select the perfect flooring for your home and enjoy its beauty for many years to come.
Walk on the Floor of Your Dreams
Your home is a sanctuary. It’s a place where you rest, dream, and celebrate. It’s a reflection of your personality and style. So, picking the right flooring for your home is like picking the foundation for your sanctuary.
See, flooring is more than just a surface. It’s a functional element that affects your daily life. The right flooring can make your home feel cozy, inviting, and stylish. It can also impact your health and well-being.
When choosing flooring, consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. By carefully minding these factors, you can select a flooring option that will add to your home’s beauty and functionality.