Got kids, pets, heavy furniture, or lots of guests?
Choose from these 5 options for the best long-lasting flooring.
Choosing the right flooring for your home can be a difficult undertaking.
Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
With so many options available, it’s no wonder that homeowners are easily overwhelmed.
However, if you long for warm tones and beautiful texture, solid hardwood is a good choice.
Solidhardwood floorsare durable and long-lasting, ideal for withstanding heavy foot traffic for decades.
Credit: Adam Albright
They come in a wide range of species, grades, and finishes.
Over the lifespan, solid hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished many times.
Hardwood is naturally resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, but it is sensitive to water damage.
Credit: Werner Straube
It is essential to wipe up spills immediately and avoid excessive moisture accumulating on the floor.
If well-preserved, solid hardwood flooring can last up to 100 years.
Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper acclimation and a perfect fit for each plank.
Engineered Wood
Most people love solid hardwood but find it too expensive for their square footage.
Instead, tryengineered wood.
Throw rugs, area rugs, or runners can help maintain it longer.
Credit: Hector Sanchez
However, unlike hardwood, the veneer top layer of engineered wood cannot be sanded or redone.
It is not recommended for households with crawled pets or modular furniture that is frequently moved around.
Laminate
Laminate flooring is popular and affordable for high-traffic areas.
It consists of a synthetic layer that looks just like hardwood or tile.
Laminate flooring performs well in busy homes, because it is resistant to scratches and stains.
The AC (Abrasion Class) rating for laminate floors tells you how durable your flooring will be.
There are five levels: AC1 (least durable) through AC6 (most durable).
Most residential homes should aim for an AC4 or AC5 rating, which is easy to clean and maintain.
Laminate is not suitable for areas prone to water spills, high humidity, or moisture accumulation.
The average lifespan of laminate flooring is about 10 to 15 years.
If the top layer is damaged or worn, then the entire flooring may have to be replaced.
It is relatively easy to install, and many homeowners choose to do it themselves.
LTV doesn’t dent or stain easily.
LVT is easy to clean, so it is a popular choice for households with kids and pets.
The average lifespan of LVT is about 15 to 20 years.
Installation procedures can vary by manufacturer, but they typically involve glue-down or click-lock methods.
Proper subfloor preparation of the tiles is essential for a successful installation and long-lasting durability.
LVT is better than traditional sheet vinyl because it is thick and can usually be installed over existing floors.
Sheet vinyl would need a new subfloor.
Porcelain or Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles orporcelain tilesare a wise choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
The average lifespan of tile flooring is about 20 to 25 years.
They are resistant to scratches, dents, stains, flooding, and discoloration from sunlight.
They are also waterproof and moisture-resistant, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and more.
Tiles are easy to clean and maintain, ideal for large families and busy households.
However, in terms of comfort, tiles can be cold underfoot during the winter or in air-conditioned rooms.
Strategically placed rugs or mats can offset the chill.
Tiles can also crack if installed poorly or if heavy objects are dropped on top of them.
Dishware and glassware will also break more easily on tiled surfaces.
Tile installation can be tricky and is typically best left to professionals.
The subfloor must be level and stable to avoid cracking or uneven tile placement.
Poor underlayment or grouting can lead to moisture seepage and swelling that ultimately result in cracks.
Keep grout lines clean, though, andtile flooringcan wear well over time.
