Flooring Basics: Types of Flooring

Every home requires flooring. Fortunately, there are many options flooring options available. Learning about the different types of flooring will help you choose the most affordable, stylish and practical option for your space. Because flooring can be expensive, taking the time to weigh each option carefully is imperative for finding the perfect match.

Carpet

One of the most common flooring options is carpeting. According to Flooring Knowledge, carpeting comes in several different styles, such as: plush, shag, frieze, berber and loop. You can also choose from a variety of textures, heights, and colors, making it one of the most versatile flooring options available.

Because each of these factors can be adjusted to change overall cost, you can often find affordable carpeting to cover your floors. However, you should also consider the carpet durability. Carpet tends to wears down over time, and stains very easily. You should expect to replace carpeting every few years or so and you should also avoid laying it in areas where it is susceptible to staining, such as in the kitchen.

Tile

Tile flooring is another option commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens. It is available in a number of styles and sizes and can make a space seem more open. While the tile itself is fairly stain-resistant, the grout in which the tiles are set can become dirty quite easily. Proper cleaning can prevent grout from becoming discolored.

Ceramic tile changes temperature very slowly, so unless you can handle walking barefoot across a cold floor each morning, it should not be used in bedrooms or similar living areas.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is becoming increasingly more common among homeowners. Flooring Knowledge notes that this may be because laminate is versatile, durable and affordable. Laminate comes in a variety of styles, colors and textures. It is stain-resistant and easy to clean. Laminate would be a good choice for high-water and stain-risk areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl would be another option for one who is interested in laminate. It bears many of the same qualities.

Hardwood

If you are going for a more polished look, and if you are willing to put some time into floor care, you may want to consider hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors are both durable and stylish. While they require a bit more care than laminate, vinyl or ceramic, they are often considered quite beautiful. Whether one is going for an antique-style décor or for a posh, trendy one, hardwood floors provide both simplicity and elegance.