Blog > How to choose the best flooring for each room: an expert's guide

How to Choose the Best Flooring for Each Room: An Expert's Guide

Tuesday, September 5, 2023, 9:00 AM

As one of the largest surfaces in our homes, flooring plays a pivotal role in defining the style, feel, and functionality of each room. While it may be tempting to select one flooring type for your entire home for the sake of consistency, doing so may not provide the best outcome in terms of aesthetics, durability, and comfort. This guide will help you choose the best flooring for each room, considering factors such as room usage, moisture levels, and your personal style.

Entryway and Hallways

Your entryway is the first impression visitors get of your home, and hallways are high-traffic areas. Therefore, it's important to choose a durable, easy-to-clean material like porcelain or ceramic tile, which can withstand mud, snow, and sand. Luxury vinyl and hardwood also make for beautiful, durable options, especially if treated with a quality finish.

Living Room

As the focal point for relaxation and entertaining, the living room demands a balance of comfort, durability, and style. Hardwood flooring is a timeless choice, offering warmth, elegance, and longevity. Luxury vinyl and laminate are also good choices for those seeking a cost-effective yet stylish option.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a high-traffic area subject to spills, heat, and dropped utensils. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular due to their resistance to these factors. However, if you prefer a softer, warmer surface, consider water-resistant luxury vinyl or laminate flooring that mimics wood or stone.

Bathroom

Moisture resistance is key in a bathroom. Ceramic, porcelain, or stone tiles are great options due to their durability and water resistance. If you want to step out of the shower onto a warmer surface, consider heated tiles or waterproof luxury vinyl.

Bedroom

Comfort and warmth are essential for bedrooms. Carpeting is a popular choice for its soft, cozy feel underfoot, while hardwood or laminate with area rugs can also provide a warm, elegant look.

Home Office

If your home office has a rolling chair, a hard surface like hardwood, laminate, or tile is ideal. You can always use an area rug for added comfort and noise reduction.

Basement: Navigating the Basement Challenge

Basements present a unique challenge when it comes to flooring due to their position below grade and potential exposure to moisture. However, with careful consideration and the right materials, you can transform your basement into a comfortable, functional living space.

Understanding Moisture Levels

Moisture is a prevalent issue in many basements, whether from high humidity levels or occasional leaks. It's crucial to assess and manage moisture levels before installing flooring. This could mean installing a dehumidifier, using a vapor barrier, or even carrying out a professional waterproofing treatment.

Best Flooring Options

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for basements. It's highly resistant to moisture, easy to clean, and comes in a wide variety of styles that mimic more expensive materials such as wood, tile, or stone. Luxury vinyl, in particular, offers a thicker, more durable option with the same aesthetic versatility.

Tile

Ceramic or porcelain tile is another good option for basements due to its durability and resistance to water. It can be made to resemble stone, wood, or simply remain its natural self. Tile can feel cold underfoot, but this can be mitigated with area rugs or, for a more luxurious touch, underfloor heating.

Engineered Wood

If you're set on a wood look for your basement, engineered wood is a more suitable choice than solid hardwood. This is because it's constructed in layers, reducing its tendency to warp under moisture conditions. However, it's worth noting that while engineered wood handles moisture better than hardwood, it's not as water-resistant as vinyl or tile.

Final Considerations

When choosing your basement flooring, it's important to consider not only moisture but also comfort, style, and usage. Are you planning on using the basement as a home gym, a play area, or a guest suite? Each use may require a different type of flooring. For example, a play area may benefit from the softness of vinyl, while a gym might require the hardness and durability of concrete or tile.

Always remember, dealing with potential moisture problems before they arise will prevent damage to your basement flooring in the long run. Consulting with a flooring professional can provide personalized advice tailored to your home's specific conditions.Basements often face moisture issues, making water-resistant materials like vinyl or tile ideal. Engineered wood can also work if moisture is controlled.

Kids' Rooms

For kids' rooms, consider a balance of comfort, durability, and easy cleaning. Carpet is a common choice for its soft landing for young kids, but laminate or vinyl flooring with area rugs can also be a practical and stylish choice.

Remember, the best flooring for your home will always depend on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget. Be sure to consider the room's use, foot traffic, moisture exposure, and, most importantly, your personal style when choosing the right flooring. When in doubt, reach out to a flooring professional who can help guide your decisions based on years of experience.