When choosing flooring for your home, there are various factors you will need to consider, such as budget, personal preferences, and the specific needs of each room.
The flooring industry is big business, with a recent report suggesting that at the end of 2020, the global flooring industry was valued at approximately $388 billion. With a plethora of options available, it is important to choose the right flooring for each room.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles
Used in kitchens, bathrooms and hallways, these tiles are highly durable, water-resistant, suitable for high-traffic areas and come in a range of styles and finishes. They can, however, be cold underfoot.
The tiles themselves are generally easy to look after, but grout lines may require regular cleaning and maintenance to conserve a pristine appearance. If you need hard floor cleaning in Cheltenham, then it is always advisable to contact a reputable cleaning company, such as https://intocleaning.co.uk/services/hard-floor-cleaning-gloucestershire/cheltenham. They will be able to recommend how to tackle a particular job.
Engineered Wood
Engineered wood flooring consists of a thin layer of real wood on top of layers of plywood. This type of flooring is a great alternative to solid wood if you plan to install underfloor heating. It also provides the overall appearance of a hardwood floor but at a fraction of the price.
Engineered wood is more resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood, so it is ideal in bathrooms and kitchens. It also looks great in living rooms and commercial buildings.
Carpet
Carpet is still a favourite in many homes, as it provides warmth, comfort, and noise reduction. It comes in different pile heights, colours and textures, making it a popular choice for bedrooms and living rooms. Carpet requires regular vacuuming, however, and can stain easily.
Concrete
Polished or stained concrete floors are increasing in popularity and have a distinctively modern, industrial look. Extremely durable and low maintenance, concrete can be customised with different colours and finishes.
Used in kitchens and dining rooms, concrete can be cold and hard. Adding rugs to the room will add warmth.
Common myths about wood flooring
Wood is often ruled out on the basis of myths. It is said to be expensive, but a well made wood floor is very durable and can last for generations, which makes it cost effective over its life. It does scratch, as all flooring wears, but it can be sanded and refinished, and rugs help prevent damage. Engineered wood is real wood too, built from layers of wood and veneer, and one with a thick wear layer can be refinished like solid boards.
Wood is not high maintenance. A quick sweep or vacuum is usually enough, though you should avoid wet mops and steam cleaners and wipe up spills straight away. Because dirt is easy to see and remove, wood floors can be kept cleaner than many alternatives, which helps people with allergies.
Responsibly sourced wood is one of the most environmentally friendly options, and it is a good insulator, especially with underfloor heating. A hardwood such as oak with a resistant finish will stand up to children and pets, and wood flooring is popular with buyers when you come to sell.
