Whether you plan on installing new flooring in one room or throughout your entire home, there are thousands of options available to help you make a statement. A vast variety of materials, colors, textures and patterns can combine to compliment every room in your home. Follow my simple suggestions to help you narrow your focus and find the perfect floor for your home.
Decide on Decor
Decide what look and feel you want for the specific rooms. Flooring is often referred to as the fifth wall in home decorating and is a key design element in setting the ambiance of a room. I call this the “WOW” factor. You can make a statement in a room with a patterned carpet. Textured floors add visual interest. Vary the width on plank flooring or set wood on a diagonal for effect. Darker of flooring can add depth and drama to a room while a neutral carpet can be a great backdrop for bold furnishings.
Lifestyle Logistics
Do you have an active home with children and pets? Do you like to entertain? Will the area have to weather heavy foot traffic? These aspects will influence the products you select from as some flooring types are more durable than others. Remember, flooring should enhance your home, but needs to be chosen for its practicality too.
Location Location
Always factor in room conditions so that your flooring is best serving its purpose. Will this be a wet area? Is it above or below grade? Are the temperatures cool or warm? Is sound an issue? Is your comfort more important? Remember your goal for that particular room and choose the right floor for the job.
How About Health
Take into consideration allergies and other health issues when selecting your floors. Anyone with serious allergies should steer away from certain types of carpet, which
could retain dust, mites and dander. There are good hypo-allergenic alternatives such as tile, wood, cork, bamboo, and some vinyl products for a better fit.
Best for Budget
What is your budget for this flooring project? Set a limit of what you are comfortable spending and then price out options. Although some products may cost more, if they wear better over time and last longer, they are a better value in the long run.
Go Green
There are many options for eco-friendly flooring such as bamboo, cork, wools, polyester and vinyl. Remember, let’s save the Earth one floor at a time.
Trending
Cork is becoming a main-stream material for flooring. It has moisture-resistant qualities, a soft, cushioning effect, is low-maintenance, can offer some insulation and absorbs sound as well.
Carlos Martinez is a Residential & Commercial Flooring Specialist with Family Flooring America. Visit Booth # 147 or www.wefloor.com for more information.
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