Are you getting ready to renovate your home? If so, you need to start thinking about what kind of flooring material you want to use. With so many different materials to pick from, it can feel overwhelming just deciding on the material you want to use. Here are the benefits of three different flooring materials, which can help you select one that will work best for you home.
1. Carpeting
Carpeting is one of the most affordable flooring materials you can use in your home due to the installation and raw material costs. Expect to pay anywhere between $2.50 and $6 per square foot of carpeting.
Many homeowners select carpeting because it is so easy to maintain. At most, you need to vacuum the carpeting regularly to keep it free of dirt and dust. It may require professional cleaning over the years if you neglect to clean the carpet as you go.
You'll also notice an increased level of comfort in your home when using carpeting. The surface is easy to walk on, so it will feel good on your feet. Carpeting also insulates the floor to help you feel warm, and it absorbs sound to make for a quiet home.
With hundreds of different colors and patterns to pick from, there will definitely be a style of carpeting out there that will work with your home's decor.
2. Laminate Flooring
The great thing about laminate flooring for a renovation is that it can be installed on top of almost any kind of subfloor. The material goes right on top without any need for altering the existing subfloor that you have.
If you are debating between natural hardwood and laminate flooring, know that the latter requires much less maintenance over the years. All you need to do is sweep the surface to clean up the debris. Avoid using a mop with soapy water, since it can get between the boards and cause the material to warp. Stick with a cleaning solution designed specifically for laminate flooring.
Installing laminate flooring is also very simple, which can save you in installation costs if you decide to have it professionally done. A laminate floor floats on top of the subfloor, and the boards click into each other. This means that no nails or glue is required to keep the flooring in place.
3. Natural Stone
The biggest advantage of natural stone is how it retains heat. If you have radiant heating underneath your floors, know that natural stone will stay very warm after the heat has been turned on. It helps slowly release the heat throughout the day, which will save you money in the form of lower heating bills.
In terms of maintenance, natural stone can be cleaned using a mop and bucket of water, which can make the whole process easier due to not needing any special cleaning supplies. However, you should consider having the material sealed so that the surface is protected. You will need to apply a new sealant when you notice the water start to absorb into the stone.
Natural stone will also hold up under rough wear and tear over the years. There will be no need to refinish a floor made with natural stone, since it resists damage from foot traffic quite easily.
You can also combine natural stone with other flooring materials, such as?area rugs. These rugs are very easy to swap out and will add some color to a room to complement your furniture.
For more information out what kind of flooring will work best for your home, reach out to to the professionals at Carpet Mart.
