Choosing Flooring for Your New Home

Choosing Flooring for Your New Home

One of the beautiful things about moving and buying a new home is that you have the opportunity to affect changes that really make the place your own. One of the largest changes you can make is to replace or modify the flooring. Fortunately, there are a number of options available to you that can greatly enhance the beauty and value of your home.

Solid Hardwood

This is constructed from plank tiles and made of birch, oak, or maple. It endures stains well, and is much more dense than softer woods such as pine. Hardwood comes in a variety of colors and is quite resistant to damage. You can in many cases install hardwood yourself, and is commonly found in all rooms, even bathrooms. Bathroom or kitchen use will require sealing in order to prevent the floor from warping.

Engineered Hardwood

This is made up of layered plywood with a hardwood veneer, and resists moisture better than most other hardwood flooring. It is the ideal choice for kitchens and baths, and can be installed over a low humidity capable concrete floor.

Linoleum

This is made from natural ingredients, and comes in sheets or may be hand cut to fit. It is available in a wide variety of colors and will last for an extremely long time. It is also a preferred option for those who like their floors easy to maintain.

Vinyl Flooring

This is also bought in sheets and hand cut to fit specifications, and it is soft under your feet, which makes it ideal for kitchen settings. Vinyl is also less expensive than linoleum, is water proof, and very durable under stress. Some vinyl surfaces may effectively mimic the look of hardwood without the maintenance involved.

Bamboo

While technically a grass, bamboo is often used like wood, and is an attractive and affordable flooring choice for some. It grows fast, which makes it attractive to people who want a wood type floor but not at the expense of the environment. Bamboo requires protection from humidity and direct sunlight.