Choosing the right flooring material for your home is important for not only style and aesthetic appeal, but also for durability and functionality. Your floors are the most used surface in your home and they also form a large part of your home's surface area meaning that you should take the time to consider what material you choose for them.

‍

We have set out the top flooring materials that combine durability and style so that you can make an informed decision on your flooring. If you have a floor material in mind, skip down to that section first and then read the rest. If you don't, we recommend starting from the top and checking out all of the different options for the best flooring materials.

‍

Hardwood Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Hardwood flooring is timeless, and we don't mean just its appearance. Made from solid wood, these floors can last for decades, especially when well-maintained.

‍

The hardness of the wood species, such as oak, maple, or hickory, will contribute significantly to its resistance to wear and tear.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Hardwood floors add a warm, natural look to any home. There are a number of different finishes, stains, and plank sizes to choose from which allows you to customize the look of your floors and to bring it in line with your vision for the space.

‍

From traditional to contemporary styles, hardwood flooring complements any interior design.

‍

Maintenance

‍

As an added bonus, hardwood floors are also relatively easy to maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, combined with occasional mopping using a wood-specific cleaner, keeps them looking pristine. A hardwood floor can even be sanded and refinished multiple times, renewing its appearance and extending its lifespan.

‍

Laminate Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

For those owners who are looking for durability and style but are on a lower budget, laminate is a popular choice. These floors are made from a high-density fiberboard which is topped with a photographic layer and a clear protective coating. This protective coating makes it resistant to scratches, dents, and stains.

‍

It’s an excellent option for high-traffic areas and homes with pets and children.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Laminate flooring mimics the appearance of natural materials like wood and stone and comes in many different colors and textures. The fact that it is so versatile makes it a good fit for any design choice. Modern manufacturing techniques have made laminate more realistic and attractive than ever before.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Laminate flooring is also a low-maintenance option and it requires only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping.

‍

However, it is important to avoid excessive moisture, as this can damage the core material. Unlike hardwood, laminate cannot be refinished, be careful with it and ensure that you prevent surface damage.

‍

Vinyl Flooring

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Vinyl flooring is one of the most durable and water-resistant options available, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

‍

It is made up of multiple layers, including a tough wear layer which makes it resistant to scratches, stains, and dents. Luxury vinyl tiles and planks offer enhanced durability and a more authentic look.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Like laminate, vinyl flooring comes in a wide array of styles, colors, and patterns, including designs that closely replicate wood, stone, and ceramic tiles. This makes it a practical and aesthetically appealing option for any room in the house.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Now for the great news! Vinyl flooring is exceptionally easy to maintain. Regular sweeping and mopping with a vinyl-safe cleaner keep it looking as good as new. Because it is water resistant, it is particularly easy to clean up spills and messes, making it a favorite in busy households.

‍

Tile Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Tile flooring, whether ceramic or porcelain, is another incredibly durable and long-lasting option. Tiles are resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.

‍

Porcelain tiles are denser and more resistant to water which makes them a bit more durable.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Tile flooring offers endless design possibilities. You can not only choose from a wide range of colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes but you can also position the tiles to create intricate designs or simple, elegant looks.

‍

From classic to modern styles, tile flooring can be customized to fit almost any aesthetic preference.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Tile flooring is also easy to maintain with regular sweeping and mopping. Make sure that the grout lines are sealed to prevent staining and make cleaning easier.

‍

Periodic resealing of the grout and tiles (in the case of natural stone) helps to keep the floor looking fresh and clean.

‍

Engineered Wood Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Engineered wood flooring is a relatively new option for homeowners. It is designed to provide the look and feel of hardwood with added durability.

‍

It consists of a real wood veneer on top of a plywood or high-density fiberboard core which makes it more stable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. This stability makes it a great option for areas where solid hardwood might not perform as well.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Like hardwood, engineered wood comes in a variety of wood species, finishes, and plank sizes. It offers the same natural beauty and warmth, with the added benefit of being more versatile in different environmental conditions. Here's a quick example: engineered wood can be installed in basements and over concrete slabs, whereas solid hardwood is not recommended for this environment.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Maintaining engineered wood flooring involves regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping with a wood-safe cleaner. While it can be sanded and refinished, this can only be done a limited number of times due to the thinner top layer compared to solid hardwood.

‍

You need to be careful not to let moisture sit on these floors for too long.

‍

Carpet Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Carpet is an option that is well known for its comfort and warmth, making it a popular choice for bedrooms and living areas. While carpets are not as durable as hard flooring options, high-quality carpets with dense fibers and proper padding can withstand significant foot traffic and last for years.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Carpet flooring comes in all different textures, colours, and patterns allowing you to choose the one that will create the most cozy and inviting atmosphere. Carpet can be used to add color and softness to a room, complementing various decor styles.

‍

You will need to regularly vacuum your carpets to remove dust and debris, along with periodic deep cleaning to maintain its appearance and hygiene. Stain-resistant treatments can help protect against spills and accidents, making maintenance easier.

‍

Bamboo Flooring

Durability and Lifespan

‍

If you are in the market for a more sustainable option, bamboo flooring offers durability similar to hardwood. Strand-woven bamboo, in particular, is extremely hard and resistant to scratches and dents.

‍

Bamboo is also more resistant to moisture than traditional hardwood, making it a great choice for various environments.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Bamboo flooring has a unique, contemporary look that can enhance the aesthetic of any home. It also comes in a variety of colors and finishes, from natural light tones to darker stains. It has very distinctive grain patterns that add a little something extra to interior spaces.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Maintaining bamboo flooring is straightforward, requiring regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping with a non-abrasive cleaner.

‍

It’s essential to avoid excessive water and if you can, be sure to use products that are specifically designed for bamboo to preserve its appearance and longevity.

‍

Concrete Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

If we're talking durability, concrete flooring is one of the most durable options available! It is capable of withstanding heavy use and high traffic. What is super important is that it is properly sealed, as this will make it resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture.

‍

This is a good option for various areas, including garages, basements, and even living spaces in certain instances.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Concrete flooring has evolved! It has utilitarian roots but has become a stylish choice for modern homes. It can be polished, stained, or stamped to create a wide range of looks, from sleek and contemporary to rustic and industrial.

‍

Concrete is incredibly versatile which allows for customization to suit different design preferences.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Concrete floors are super low-maintenance. They require regular sweeping and occasional mopping (be sure to use a neutral-pH cleaner). Again, the proper sealing of the surface is vital.

‍

Cork Flooring

‍

Durability and Lifespan

‍

Cork flooring is a very unique and eco-friendly option that is also known for its comfort and resilience. It’s naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and termites which makes it a durable choice for various rooms.

‍

However, cork can be susceptible to dents and scratches so you will need to ensure proper care and maintenance to prolong its lifespan.

‍

Style and Versatility

‍

Cork flooring offers a warm, organic look that complements a variety of interior styles. Its natural texture and insulating properties add comfort and warmth to living spaces.

‍

Maintenance

‍

Maintaining cork flooring is a little more difficult than some of the other options. It involves regular sweeping or vacuuming and damp mopping with a mild cleaner but it is essential to protect cork floors from excessive moisture and use furniture pads to prevent dents and scratches.

‍

Resealing the floors every now and then will help to maintain its appearance and durability.

‍

When you are trying to decide on a flooring option, you need to think about your space and the look you want to provide, the foot traffic or use of the area, and the durability of the material. By considering all of these, you can choose the flooring that best enhances the beauty and functionality of your home, while also remaining within budget.

‍