There are numerous styles to choose from when it comes to flooring, each with its own distinctive pros, cons, maintenance needs and prices. Ultimately, the type of flooring you choose depends on your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and budget requirements. Before making a final decision, consider the following information about some of the most common types of flooring:
Carpet
The easiest and most cost-effective type of floor covering to replace and upgrade, carpet is also popular because of its color option diversity and soft underfoot texture. Its main concerns are wear-and-tear and vulnerability to stains, but numerous manufacturers make products that are stain-resistant and don’t prematurely show wear. Regular vacuuming and annual deep cleaning are recommended. (Price: $2-$15 per square foot, installed.)
Laminate
Durable and affordable, laminate is known for its wide range of colors and designs. However, unlike most carpet, laminate is stain-resistant. The downside is it’s susceptible to scratches and can’t be refinished or sanded down. (Price: $3-$7 per square foot, installed.)
Wood
Long-lasting and wear-resistant, wood can provide a more rustic ambience than most flooring choices and, unlike laminate, can be refinished if scratched. Be wary of softer woods like pine, which may dent easily. Also be aware that wood flooring is prone to darken with age and may shrink or expand with the weather, creating gaps or warping. To remove scuffs and marks, lightly apply a soft, clean cloth sprayed with a manufacturer-recommended hardwood floor cleaner. ($6-$15 per square foot, installed.)
Vinyl
Less expensive than most flooring choices, vinyl is durable, comfortable and easy to clean. It is, however, difficult to repair, and less expensive grades are prone to discoloration. Consider buying in sheet form rather than tile form—unlike sheet form, tile form isn’t water-resistant. ($1-$7 per square foot, installed.)
Linoleum
More durable than vinyl, linoleum is made of natural raw materials and can be hand-cut for personalized artistic design and installation. Polish a linoleum floor periodically to restore its shine and protect against staining and scuffing. Reseal annually to ensure optimal performance. ($2-$9 per square foot, installed.)
The cost of a new floor consists of much more than just the price per square inch, so ask your retailer to calculate the cost of the project in its entirety. Some additional costs may include furniture renewal, demolition/disposal of old floor coverings, sub-floor preparation, product delivery, installation, extra materials required to complete the installation, interest rates and financing fees.
