Types of flooring and things to consider before installation

Types of flooring and things to consider before installation

Blaire Little

A home improvement project can be an exciting opportunity to experiment with the look of the living space. Flooring is an important aspect to consider here for enhancing the design, durability, functionality, and style of the room one is renovating. With different types of flooring offering unique utility and durability, here is an in-depth look at available options to make an informed decision:

Types
Each type of flooring comes with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the key features of each option:

Hardwood flooring
This type of flooring consists of a single piece of milled wood. Made of solid wood throughout, this is a popular flooring option in the market. One can choose from hardwood varieties like cherry, walnut, maple, or oak. Definitely one of the most expensive flooring types available in the market, hardwood flooring can cost anywhere from $7 to $23 per square foot, depending on the chosen variety. One of the biggest benefits of opting for this material is that it increases home sale value. Given that hardwood is a strong and durable material, it can be refinished after years of use. However, one may have to consider potential issues like moisture damage, scrapes and scratches, and dents when opting for hardwood.

Laminate flooring
This is a more affordable option than hardwood and tiles and a great alternative to carpeted floors. The material comprises a particleboard wood base topped by a wood or tile photo underneath a clear plastic protective sheet. Laminate floors are easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and ideal for DIY installation with the right know-how. However, the material can chip easily, produce a hollow underfoot sound, and be susceptible to moisture damage. This is why laminate flooring is priced at $3 to $10 on average per square foot.

Tile flooring
This is a popular choice for certain moisture-prone sections of a house, like the bathroom and kitchen. This is because tile is a durable, water-resistant material. However, tile floors can be a bit expensive and difficult to install. One may need professional flooring services when opting for this material. Another drawback worth considering is tiles tend to get cold easily and can be very slippery when wet. Tile prices can vary, with the average cost being $3 per square foot for ceramic tiles and up to $10 per square foot for porcelain tiles.

Stone flooring
Natural stone flooring can be a stunning option, adding an elegant touch to the interiors. Alternatively, the material can be a charming flooring option for outdoor areas. Some of the options here are marble, granite, travertine, and sandstone. A durable and waterproof material, with the right care, the flooring can last for a long time. Depending on the kind of stone used, the care can vary. Some of the limitations to consider are the installation requirements, as it requires professional flooring services. Stone flooring can also be expensive, with the average price being anywhere between $10 and $15 per square foot.

Vinyl flooring
This is another affordable option on the list, being priced at $3 to $7 per square foot. Vinyl is resistant to water, not sustaining any damage even with prolonged exposure to moisture. The material is made out of plastic and comes in three types: planks, tiles, and sheets. It is commonly used for kitchen floors, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Vinyl floors are also DIY-friendly options and can be easy to maintain, making them worth considering.

Engineered wood flooring
Another popular flooring option that is less expensive than wood but looks like wood is engineered wood. This type of flooring consists of a thin layer of hardwood, which is then bonded over a high-quality plywood substrate. This is why engineered wood gives the illusion of being hardwood. It is a DIY-friendly flooring option that offers better moisture resistance than hardwood. On average, engineered wood flooring can cost anywhere between $4 and $16 per square foot.

Things to consider
If one is considering hiring flooring service providers, especially when working with materials like stone or tiles, choosing reliable professionals is important. Here are a few things to consider and compare:

– Installation timeline
– Types of services the professionals offer in addition to installation, like remodeling and maintenance
– Cost of installation, which includes not just the material prices but also labor costs and charges for underlayment, removal, additional materials or tools required, and disposal of existing flooring

To avoid overspending on flooring, one should discuss the estimate with each flooring company and compare prices quoted by multiple service providers.

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