Why Conventional Flooring Options Are Outdated
After the carpet craze of the 1990s, homeowners reverted back to basics. Glossy blond wood floors became popular.
This era also saw the birth of linoleum and vinyl. These new materials could be printed with all sorts of unique colors and patterns, busting the mold of traditional hardwood flooring.
Hardwood
When you think of classic flooring options, hardwood floors are probably what come to mind. They are elegant, timeless, and can add an element of luxury to any home. Whether you have an old historic house or a modern mansion, wood floors are the way to go.
Traditional wood floors come in a variety of colors, textures and grains. They can be crafted to suit almost any style of interior design. They are also one of the most durable flooring materials on the market. When properly maintained, they can last for decades. They are also easy to clean and are resistant to water, stains and other damaging elements.
Hardwoods are much denser than softwoods and therefore sturdier and more durable. They are used in a wide range of applications, including bespoke joinery projects, wooden flooring, furniture and fine veneers. Their beauty is reflected in their natural grain pattern and color, which can be enhanced by a wide range of finishes.
Many people choose hardwood floors because of their durability, but they are also popular because of their aesthetics. They can be stained or treated with a variety of finishes to match any decor. Darker staining is a trendy option that can add a bold statement to any space while light-colored staining is a more classic choice that looks great with a variety of styles.
While refinishing wood floors is an expensive process, it is one of the best ways to extend their lifespan. However, some homeowners may not be able to afford the cost of refinishing their hardwood floors. If this is the case, they can look for alternatives that offer similar benefits without the high price tag of refinishing. One such option is engineered wood, which is essentially plywood with a layer of hardwood on top. It can be sanded down and refinished to extend its life, but it isn’t as durable as solid hardwood.
Another way to get the look of hardwood floors is to use a herringbone or chevron pattern in the installation. This is a great way to add visual interest to any room and will catch the eye of guests. These patterns are also easier to maintain than traditional stains and can be replaced when they begin to show signs of wear and tear.
Tile
Tile flooring is a classic choice that adds a timeless, polished look to any room. It is durable and long-lasting, especially when properly cared for. Unlike carpet, which often needs to be replaced after only ten years, and hardwood floors that may need to be refinished every twenty, tiles can easily last for over two decades. This longevity also makes them a more cost-effective option than many other types of floors.
Another great aspect of tile is that it is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, materials, and sizes. This allows homeowners to customize their design and make a one-of-a-kind floor that fits their unique style.
When compared to hardwood floors, which are often limited to only a few options of color and grain, tile offers much more customization and flexibility for design. In addition to a wide variety of colors and patterns, tile can be used in various layouts, and even incorporate unique features like borders or mosaics.
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, tile is a great flooring option for homes with kids or pets. It doesn’t trap allergens like pet hair, pollen, and dust, and it can be easily cleaned with a mop or vacuum. This is particularly beneficial for people with breathing problems, such as allergies or asthma.
As a bonus, tile is an eco-friendly option as well. It’s made from natural materials, and unlike other synthetic flooring products, such as vinyl or laminate, it doesn’t release Volatile Organic Compounds into the air. Tiles are also manufactured in a closed-loop system, which means that they reuse water and recycle waste materials.
In addition, tile flooring is a great option for warmer climates. Unlike wood and carpet, it doesn’t retain heat in the winter and will allow your home to stay cooler without the need for excessive air conditioning.
While no type of flooring is perfect, epoxy is a good choice for most people because it is durable, versatile, and low-maintenance. According to a Fort Lauderdale based epoxy flooring company, “basic cleaning is a sweep or vacuum daily and a mop weekly.” This is much less than the demand of other flooring types, such as carpet, which requires professional deep cleans at least once a year, and laminate timber flooring, which can need refinishing after five years.
If you’re looking to upgrade your house and increase its resale value, consider upgrading your floors with beautiful tile. It’s an easy way to transform your space into a modern, high-end home that will impress prospective buyers and command a higher asking price.
Carpet
When compared to hardwood and tile, carpet tends to have a lower initial price point. However, this flooring option has a tendency to wear down over time and may require more frequent replacement than other options. Additionally, it traps air pollutants like pollen and mold and can lead to health problems for allergy sufferers.
Despite these drawbacks, it’s important to remember that carpets can be made from sustainable materials and can offer several advantages over other flooring types. For example, it is available in a wide variety of colors and styles and can be easily dyed to match or complement existing décor. Carpet also has a naturally acoustic quality, which can be useful for those who live in multi-story homes or apartments.
In terms of durability, some carpet types are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and can provide a soft, comfortable feel underfoot. This can be especially beneficial for families with small children or seniors, who are prone to falling on hard floors. Additionally, carpets often come with factory-estimated lifespans that can be extended through regular maintenance and professional cleaning.
Carpeting is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Experts believe that this is due to a combination of factors, including the rise of “grandmillennial” design trends and a growing appreciation for comfort. In addition, carpeting is a good choice for those who want to add color and warmth to a room.
Another benefit of carpeting is that it can be installed over a variety of substrates and subfloors, making it a more versatile choice than many other types of flooring. Moreover, it offers a level of comfort that can be difficult to achieve with hard surfaces, such as wood or vinyl.
Lastly, many people choose to install carpeting in their homes because it can help reduce noise levels. This is particularly important if they live in a multiple-story home or apartment, where footsteps can be heard above and below. Additionally, carpets can muffle sounds like squeaks from older floors that can occur over time as the wood expands and contracts.
With so many advantages, it is no surprise that carpets are making a comeback in modern homes. When properly maintained, they can last up to 10 or more years, providing a long-lasting and beautiful floor covering that can be customized to match the décor of any room.