Choosing flooring for a new home can be a daunting task. With so many options available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking for something waterproof for your bathrooms and side rooms or a premium product for your living room, this guide will help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Flooring
Flooring is a significant investment that impacts not only the aesthetic appeal of your home but also its functionality and resale value. The right flooring can enhance your home’s comfort, style, and durability, while the wrong choice can lead to maintenance issues and decreased property value. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular flooring options and their best uses in different areas of your home.
Waterproof Options: Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) has become increasingly popular due to its waterproof properties and durability. It’s an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. LVP is designed to mimic the look of natural wood or stone, offering a stylish yet practical solution.
Benefits of Luxury Vinyl Plank
- Waterproof: Ideal for areas where water exposure is common.
- Durable: Resistant to scratches and dents, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Easy Installation: Many LVP products come with a click-lock installation system, making it a good option for DIY enthusiasts.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping.
Drawbacks of Luxury Vinyl Plank
- Perceived Value: While LVP can be very attractive, it doesn’t hold the same value as natural hardwood or stone, which might affect resale value.
- Comfort: LVP can be harder underfoot compared to carpet or cork flooring.
Premium Choice: Solid Hardwood
Solid hardwood flooring is considered a premium option due to its timeless beauty, durability, and ability to add significant value to a home. It’s ideal for showcase areas of the house, such as living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms, where the environment is well-insulated from climate changes and moisture. The family run business at Really Cheap Floors helps keep costs down for new build projects.
Benefits of Solid Hardwood
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a warm, natural look that can be refinished multiple times.
- Durability: With proper care, solid hardwood can last for decades.
- Value: Adds considerable value to your home, making it a worthwhile investment.
Drawbacks of Solid Hardwood
- Sensitivity to Moisture: Not suitable for bathrooms or basements due to its tendency to warp in humid conditions.
- Cost: Typically more expensive than other flooring options.
- Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including refinishing every few years.
Versatile Option: Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is constructed with a top layer of real wood veneer over a plywood base, combining the beauty of solid wood with improved stability. This makes it a versatile choice suitable for a wide range of areas in your home, including living rooms, bedrooms, and even guest rooms.
Benefits of Engineered Hardwood
- Stability: Less prone to warping and swelling, making it suitable for areas with varying humidity levels.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers the same look as solid hardwood but with added durability.
- Installation Flexibility: Can be installed over concrete slabs and radiant heating systems, expanding its usability.
Drawbacks of Engineered Hardwood
- Limited Refinishing: While it can be refinished, the number of times is limited compared to solid hardwood.
- Cost: Generally more expensive than LVP but often more affordable than solid hardwood.
Making the Right Choice for Each Room
When selecting flooring for your new home, consider the specific needs and conditions of each room. Here are some recommendations to help guide your decision:
Bathrooms and Kitchens
- Best Option: Luxury Vinyl Plank
- Why: Waterproof properties make it ideal for wet areas, and it’s easy to clean.
Living Rooms and Dining Rooms
- Best Option: Solid Hardwood
- Why: The premium look and feel of hardwood add elegance and value to showcase areas.
Bedrooms and Guest Rooms
- Best Option: Engineered Hardwood
- Why: The stability and aesthetic appeal of engineered hardwood make it a comfortable and stylish choice for these areas.
Basements and Mudrooms
- Best Option: Luxury Vinyl Plank
- Why: The waterproof nature of LVP makes it suitable for areas prone to moisture and mud.
Tips for Successful Flooring Shopping
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on flooring for each area of your home.
- Consider Long-Term Value: While cheaper options might be tempting, consider the long-term value and maintenance costs associated with different types of flooring.
- Think About Installation: Decide whether you want to hire professionals or take on a DIY project. Some flooring options are easier to install than others.
- Get Samples: Order samples of your top choices to see how they look and feel in your home’s lighting and space.
- Maintenance Requirements: Be realistic about how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your floors.
New Home Flooring Projects Are Ready to Finish
Shopping for flooring in a new home can indeed be challenging, but with a clear understanding of your options and their respective benefits and drawbacks, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget and lifestyle. Luxury Vinyl Plank offers a practical solution for moisture-prone areas, Solid Hardwood provides a timeless and valuable upgrade for main living spaces, and Engineered Hardwood bridges the gap with its versatility and durability. By considering the unique needs of each room and the long-term benefits of each flooring type, you can ensure that your new home’s flooring is both beautiful and functional.
