Types of Flooring: Part One

We recently discussed some tips on how to choose the right flooring for your home projects. In a follow-up to that discussion, in this blog post we will look at some of the different types of flooring you can install in your kitchen, bathroom and other living areas.

Choosing the right flooring for your room is important on so many levels – from comfort and durability, to style and even safety. There are many options available to homeowners and while some types of flooring are generally limited to certain rooms, at the end of the day the choice comes down to one of personal preference. However, knowing the benefits of each type of floor may make your decision a little easier, and that is what this article is all about!

Cork Flooring

When most of us think of the material cork, we tend to think of wine bottles or a place to pin our sticky notes. In truth, this versatile material is a great option for kitchen flooring, living rooms and bedrooms.

Softer and warmer than hard wood floors, cork flooring is a great choice for those seeking a mix of comfort and natural style. It is also a great eco-friendly option, as it helps insulate your home, resulting in less energy waste.

Cork is also naturally fire, mold and mildew resistant, and is a great choice for those with allergies, as it is also hypoallergenic. On the flip side, cork flooring is prone to fading in certain conditions, can suffer from perforations, and is not the best material for liquids and moisture – you will want to clean up any spills or liquids immediately.

Bamboo Flooring

Another increasingly popular flooring choice is bamboo. Like cork floors, bamboo floors are a “green flooring” option that more and more homeowners are opting to install. You can use bamboo in virtually any room, though caution should be used in bathrooms, as bamboo absorbs liquids if left for too long.

This type of flooring comes in three different styles, including horizontal, vertical and woven – each with its own look and durability. In addition, bamboo has three color options: carbonized (tan to light brown), natural (blonde), and stained (you choose the stain color).

Hardwood Flooring

When the majority of homeowners make their wish lists for their homes, hardwood flooring is usually on the list, and for good reason. Choosing the right hardwood floor can really make a room pop and add character to the overall style of the room, whether it be rich and elegant or rustic and charming.

There are many benefits to hardwood flooring, including its durability, ease of maintenance, wide range of options, and the fact that it, like our other two materials in this article, is hypoallergenic. In addition, installing hardwood floors in your home can add value to the property, which is something every homeowner should take into consideration.

Hardwood flooring is not without its downsides however. It can suffer from water and surface damage, and, depending upon the type and amount of damage, can be difficult or costly to repair. However, the pros tend to outweigh the negatives with this type of flooring.

Other Flooring Options

This article has only just scratched the surface in terms of what types of flooring you can choose for your home. We will cover some of the other types, including tile, laminate, concrete, carpet and vinyl in an upcoming article.