Deciding which type of flooring to install in your home is one of the biggest and most important decisions that you will ever make as a homeowner. As such, it is a good idea to do your research before picking an option based simply on the way it looks or on how much it costs. Here is a general break down of the top five most popular flooring options in the UK, along with their various pros and cons.
- Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is amazing because it gives you plenty of freedom to decide how you want your floors to look without the worry of the associated price tag. You can opt for a hardwood aesthetic or a stone-y sheen. The options are practically endless. Plus, laminate flooring is waterproof is very easy to clean and maintain. The only drawback is that damaged laminate flooring cannot be repaired. In most instances, it will need to be replaced, which could possibly mean higher costs in the long term.
- Hardwood flooring
From a resale value and a general aesthetics point of view, you cannot beat hardwood flooring. It is a classic choice for a reason. Furthermore, when properly maintained, hardwood flooring is generally the most durable and long-lasting of all of the available types of flooring. However, these floors definitely do not come cheap. They are an investment and make long term sense, but are substantially harsher on the pocket than any other option on the market today.
- Carpet
Many homes in the UK have been fitted with carpets. This is usually because carpet acts as a natural insulator, thus helping to lock in warmth during the chilly winter months and save homeowners money on their heating bills. Carpet is also naturally cosy and offers an unbeatable soft, cushioned feeling underfoot. Plus, it has made a big comeback in recent times. The only con is that it can be more challenging to keep clean as it tends to hold onto dust and pet dander. However, as long as you vacuum a few times a week and call on the professionals for a deep clean a couple of times a year, you shouldn’t have any problem.
- Vinyl flooring
Contrary to popular belief, vinyl floors are not outdated. They can look quite stylish, in fact, and are said to be making a comeback in the interior design scene from 2020 and beyond. They offer an attractive matte finish and are durable. Just like laminate flooring, vinyl flooring is effortless to keep clean and is waterproof, making it a good choice for rooms in the home that see higher levels of humidity.
- Cork flooring
Cork flooring is particularly trendy in the UK at the moment. It provides a home with an eco-friendly, modern look and feel and also acts as a natural insulator, helping to keep homes snug when temperatures start to drop. The only issue is that cork is easily damaged by pets and heavy foot traffic.
The best way to decide what type of flooring is right for you and your family is to consult with flooring experts. They will be able to advise you in terms of the best way forward so that you can enjoy your floors today and every day thereafter!
