How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home

Picking new flooring for your Middle Tennessee home can be a stressful task, as you may not know what options are available or what might be the best fit for your lifestyle. Country Flooring Direct is here to help. Here are some common flooring types with pros and cons.

Hardwood

Hardwood is a popular choice for homeowners because of its durability and lifespan. Since hardwood is hypoallergenic, it won’t trap particles like dust and dander. The design options with hardwood are vast, so you’ll be able to find a style that matches your home and style. Hardwood never goes out of style, so it is a timeless option that will stand the test of time.

Like all flooring, hardwood has its drawbacks. Cost can be high depending on the type of hardwood you pick, and it takes longer to install compared to carpet or laminate floors. It is more likely to get scratched or scuffed unless a special finish is used. Water can cause a lot of damage to hardwood, causing warping, rotting, and more.

Carpet

Carpet designs range from neutral to very bold and stylish, so most people can find a style that fits their aesthetic, at a price usually more reasonable than hardwood. Carpet is a sound-dampener, so it helps reduce noise between floors and rooms.

One of the biggest cons that deter people from carpet is that high-traffic areas will show wear and tear over time. The lifespan of carpet, especially parts that are regularly traveled on, is not nearly as long as a hard surface. Carpet is very susceptible to staining, so messes must be cleaned up quickly. Vacuuming is a must as the carpet absorbs smells, allergens, and more.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is much less expensive than real hardwood or stone, and if you choose a higher-end laminate floor, it can last you for years to come. The installation is simple compared to real hardwood, and the upkeep is much less time consuming. Laminate floors also come in a variety of finishes mimicking wood, stone, tile, and concrete, giving you an almost limitless possibility for the look of your home. Laminate floors are easy to clean but be wary about leaving standing water on laminate floors, as most are not waterproof or resistant.

One drawback of laminate floors is the varying degrees of durability. Some brands have easily dinged and scratched laminate flooring, while others have a durable laminate that will last for years if properly cared for. Another drawback, as mentioned above, is not all laminate floors are water-resistant. This is due to being made with a wood byproduct, so water can cause the floor to warp and bend causing potential damage.

Luxury Vinyl

Luxury Vinyl floors are very cost-effective compared to hardwood or tile and are 100% synthetic material meaning it is waterproof. This is one of the most common choices for Middle Tennessee homeowners as you get the look of real hardwood flooring without nearly any of the upkeep, plus it is a great choice for pets. It comes in a variety of finishes and plank sizes, so there is a design and finish for every aesthetic.

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If you are interested in learning more about our selection of flooring to see which one would be a good fit for you, give us a call today at 615-646-0366 or fill out our online form to schedule your mobile showroom tour. Yep, we’ll bring all your options to YOU!