When choosing flooring for one room or an entire home, there are many things to consider. What is the function of space? Is it formal or more casual? Does the room get a lot of foot traffic? Will the flooring get wet from the laundry machine or the bathtub?
Then, of course, there’s personal taste and the overall look you want to achieve. Fortunately, there are many different types of flooring to meet your every need.
The Top 3 Flooring Options
Hardwood
Hardwood floors are a popular choice in residential flooring that will never go out of style. Hardwood floors add warmth to almost any space and are appropriate for most rooms in the house. A dark cherry finished floor looks elegant in a formal dining room, while a light oak is perfect for a child’s bedroom or nursery.
To refresh the look of your hardwood floors, simply refinish them every few years. Solid or Engineered hardwood floors are durable and resilient. With proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last a decade or longer.
Laminate
Laminate flooring is made up of several synthetic layers of particle board and fiber fused together into a high-density core. Laminate flooring is scratch resistant, so it’s the perfect floor for pets and kids. Laminate flooring is also moisture-resistant, so it is easy to clean with a sponge or rag. However, laminate is not 100% waterproof, so it may not be the best option for an entryway or bathroom.
Vinyl
One of the greatest benefits of vinyl flooring is that it’s 100% waterproof. Vinyl flooring is also incredibly durable, so it’s perfect for high-foot-traffic areas and commercial spaces.
Vinyl flooring is easy to install over almost any hard surface subfloor. Vinyl flooring does not expand or contract, so it doesn’t shift or buckle.
Vinyl flooring is available in a variety of plank and tile options that look almost exactly like their wood and natural tile counterparts. It is a great value and is significantly less money per square foot than comparable hardwood floors. Vinyl flooring provides a gorgeous finished product with virtually no downside.
2024 Flooring Design Trends
The flooring material is just one decision to make when choosing a floor. This year has brought some flooring trends to the forefront that range from modern to rustic. Fortunately, with a little ingenuity and imagination, you can achieve any look you desire.
Wide tiles or planks, anywhere from 8″ to 20″, are very popular this year. An aged look is also desirable, especially with mountain and farmhouse themes. Bleached “wood” is a sought-after look, especially in beach homes and rooms with lots of natural light. Fun zigzag and geometric patterns are making a comeback in kitchens and bathrooms.
In the end, choosing the right flooring is about balancing practicality with personal style. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of hardwood, the budget-friendly durability of laminate, or the water-resistant versatility of vinyl, today’s flooring options offer something for every space and lifestyle. With trends like wide planks, aged finishes, and creative patterns on the rise, there’s no shortage of ways to make your floors as stylish as they are functional. So, take the time to consider your needs, explore your style preferences, and select a flooring option that enhances your space beautifully and comfortably.