Avoid Some Very Simple But Serious Mistakes When Choosing Home Flooring

The material you choose for home flooring is very important as you want something durable and that will stand up to foot traffic, humidity, heat and cold, and to any furniture moving that is done in the home! You also want something that looks good, not just when it's first installed, but for years to come. To ensure you opt for the best flooring for any room of your home, avoid these simple but very serious mistakes while shopping and during the installation process.

Not understanding how a flooring material is made

You may look at certain types of flooring and think that it looks and feels durable and then opt for whatever fits your budget and style. However, knowing how certain types of flooring are actually made can tell you even more about its overall durability and if you will need to maintain and repair it more often over the years.

For example, laminate flooring is actually a few layers of material covered special coating and then a layer of sealant. This can make it difficult to repair the floor if that decorative layer gets damaged. Real timber floors can be sanded and then stained as necessary, so they last longer even if they get damaged.

Not considering long-term cleanliness

Different types of flooring will maintain different levels of cleanliness over time. Carpeting, for example, will hold dust and dirt and other irritants, even if the fibre loops are cut very low. Tile that is pitted along the surface can also hold dirt and debris. Solid hardwood is usually the most hygienic choice and will stay cleaner over time, something to consider if anyone in the home has allergies or you're simply concerned about the cleanliness of your home.

Self-installation

Even if you're very handy around the house and have lots of tools at your disposal, you don't want to think that you can install your own home flooring. Trying to "DIY" an installation can mean carpeting that bunches up in certain areas and becomes a tripping hazard; if you must install carpeting on your own, opt for carpet tiles, which adhere to the floor with a sticky backing. If you prefer timber floors, opt for a floating snap and lock system so the boards don't need to be nailed or glued to the subfloor. This can ensure your installation job is done properly and your floors always look their best