When it comes to choosing the right flooring, it’s hard to know where to begin. There are so many different types out there and some could be better suited to one space over another. Fortunately, when it comes to a living space like your living room or lounge you can’t really go wrong. It comes down to what you want and what best suits your style and home aesthetic. Let’s take a closer look at a variety of different options that make for excellent flooring in your living space.
1. Wood
Wooden flooring is a timeless choice and a common one in many homes across the globe. It is something you can be sure won’t go out of style. Solid wood flooring warms a room and can go with a variety of different interior aesthetics. On top of that, you have the option of a variety of different wood species, that have different wood grain patterns as well as different natural tones. Some wood tones are warmer while others are cooler once treated. It is durable and if damaged, it can be sanded and treated again. When it comes to hardwood floor transitions between rooms, they can be seamless if done correctly. This is one of the things that makes wood such a fantastic option for not only a living space but your entire home. Using a single floor material throughout, makes your home look effortless and makes it much easier to clean.
2. Laminate
If you want that timeless wooden look, but it’s just too expensive, consider wood laminate. Be sure to spend that little bit extra on it though to ensure that you get the best quality laminate you can. This is especially important for high-traffic areas like the entryway to a home. People opt for laminate, not only because of how closely it resembles hardwood but because of how easy it is to install. It’s almost like putting a big puzzle together on the floor with an extremely satisfying result.
3. Natural Flooring
Another great option to consider is natural stone or natural tile flooring. This is something that not a lot of people opt for as it is quite unusual and doesn’t suit everyone’s aesthetic. It is however absolutely stunning and there are all sorts of options to choose from. You might not have considered it before, but this type of flooring can add subtle detail and interest to an otherwise boring space. It is a unique way to bring outside textures inside and many of them are quite hardy.
4. Carpeting
Who doesn’t like a classic carpeted floor? If soft, springy goodness is your number one priority, we highly recommend installing carpets rather than throwing down an area rug here and there. It keeps your feet warm during those cold winter months and is just more pleasant to walk around on, especially barefoot. You don’t have to cover your entire home in carpeted flooring, but if it’s something you like, we highly recommend that you at least put it down in your living room and even bedrooms. Look for something that is soft, but durable. If you have children in your home, opt for polypropylene to minimize the risk of stains. You have a variety of different colors to choose from and some are even decorated with interesting patterns (if that’s your thing).
5. Tiles
Tiles are easy to clean and easy to maintain. The most common options are either porcelain or ceramic tiles. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes and some even imitate different materials entirely. Get the look of wood with the durability of tile. Tiles are always a winner.
6. Vinyl
Vinyl is another one of those budget-friendly flooring alternatives to different materials. You can get the look at a fraction of the price – wood, stone, you name it. Vinyl can simulate the look without the side effect of cold, commonly associated with tiles and natural stone. Vinyl keeps your feet warmer than some other materials and is the easiest option to clean by far. For longevity, we recommend that you don’t go for the cheapest option on the market. This will ensure that you have good quality vinyl flooring that is water resistant and scratch resistant, making them a low maintenance option.
When it comes to choosing the best flooring, there are quite a few things to consider. It mostly comes down to your personal style and preference, but also your needs. Some flooring, as we discussed above, is better for high traffic areas, eg. tiles, than others, eg. carpeting. If you like to walk around your home with your shoes off, but don’t like the cold, carpeting would be a top contender for you. If you’re looking for really low maintenance, vinyl or laminate are your best bet. Durability? Natural stone or porcelain tiles are your best bet. Combine your needs with your aesthetic and you’ll come to the correct answer with ease.