If you are planning to update your home’s flooring, there are many things to consider. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide what type of flooring is right for you and your family. Use this guide to help you narrow down your choices and make the best decision for your home.
1. Consider your lifestyle
The first thing to think about when choosing new flooring is your lifestyle. If you have young children or pets, hardwood floors might not be the best option for you. Instead, you might want to consider carpet or LVT (luxury vinyl tile). If you have allergies, carpet may not be the best choice either. In that case, you might want to look at hardwood, laminate, or tile.
2. Think about your budget
Another important factor to consider is your budget. Flooring can be expensive, so it’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. Once you know how much you can afford to spend, you can narrow down your choices and focus on flooring options that fit within your budget.
3. If you choose epoxy flooring, make sure the floor is level
Epoxy flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it’s durable and easy to maintain. However, it’s important to make sure your floor is level before you install epoxy flooring. If your floor is not level, the epoxy may not adhere properly and it could cause problems down the road.
4. Don’t forget about underlayment
Underlayment is an important but often overlooked component of flooring. It’s a layer of material that is installed between the subfloor and the finished flooring. Underlayment provides cushioning and can help reduce noise. It’s also important for protecting your floors from moisture.
5. Consider installation costs
When you are budgeting for new flooring, don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation. Some types of flooring, such as laminate, can be installed by DIYers. But, if you choose hardwood or tile, you will probably need to hire a professional installer. Installation costs can vary widely, so be sure to get a few estimates before you make a final decision.
6. Get samples before you buy
Before you purchase new flooring, it’s important to get samples and see the product in person. Flooring can look very different in your home than it does in the store, so it’s important to see how it will actually look before you make a final decision.
7. Consider the lifespan of the flooring
When you are choosing new flooring, think about how long you want it to last. If you plan on selling your home in the near future, you might not want to invest in expensive hardwood floors. But, if you plan on staying in your home for many years, hardwood floors can be a good investment.
8. Ask about warranties
When you are shopping for new flooring, be sure to ask about warranties. Most flooring manufacturers offer some type of warranty on their products. Warranties can vary widely, so it’s important to compare warranties before you make a final purchase.
9. Hire a professional installer
If you choose hardwood, tile, or another type of flooring that requires professional installation, be sure to hire a qualified installer. A good installer will have the experience and expertise to install your floors correctly the first time. This will save you time and money in the long run.
10. Compare prices
When you are ready to purchase new flooring, it’s important to compare prices. Flooring can be expensive, so you want to make sure you are getting the best deal possible. The best way to compare prices is to get several estimates from different retailers. This will give you a good idea of the going rate for the type of flooring you want.
By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right flooring for your home. With so many options available, there is sure to be a type of flooring that is perfect for your needs. So take your time, do your research, and find the perfect floors for your home.
