The right flooring can make the difference!
 "The right flooring can make the difference!")
Flooring doesn't have to be boring. Learn more about some of the options
Flooring might not be the first thing you think about when designing a room, but it’s one of those decisions that can totally change how your home looks and feels. It’s the foundation of your space; you walk on every day, it’s the “backdrop” to your furniture, and the surface your pets, kids, and guests will all get to see and feel.
So how do you choose the right one?
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular flooring options, where they shine, where they struggle, and how to make the best choice for your lifestyle. Plus, we’ll explore the advantages of bringing in a pro that can save you a ton of time, stress, and even money.
Hardwood: The Real Deal
Hardwood is like the little black dress of flooring—classic, elegant, and always in style. Whether you go for a rustic oak or a sleek walnut, hardwood adds warmth and character that’s hard to beat.
Why it’s awesome:
- It ages beautifully. A few scuffs and scratches? That’s called “character.”
- It boosts your home’s resale value.
- It works with almost any design style—from farmhouse to modern.
What to watch out for:
- It’s not a fan of water. Spills need to be cleaned up quickly.
- It can scratch, especially if you have pets or wear shoes indoors.
- It’s pricey, both in materials and installation.
Pro tip: If you love the look but live in a humid or high-traffic area, consider engineered hardwood. It looks the same but handles moisture and movement better.
Laminate: Looks Like Wood, Lives Like a Champ
Laminate is the chameleon of the flooring world. It can look like wood, stone, or tile, but it’s made from high-density fiberboard with a photo layer on top. Sounds high-tech, right? That’s because it is.
Why it’s awesome:
- It’s budget-friendly and still looks great.
- It’s tough against scratches and dents.
- It’s easy to install—click-lock systems make it a DIY dream.
What to watch out for:
- It doesn’t like water. A big spill can cause it to swell or warp.
- You can’t refinish it. Once it’s damaged, it’s time to replace.
Pro tip: Use area rugs in high-traffic spots to extend its life and add some cozy vibes.
Carpet: Soft, Warm, and Often Underrated
Carpet gets a bad rap sometimes, but it’s still one of the best choices for comfort. There’s nothing like stepping out of bed onto a soft, warm floor—especially in the winter.
Why it’s awesome:
- It’s cozy and quiet—perfect for bedrooms and family rooms.
- It comes in endless colors and textures.
- It’s great for kids and pets (just choose a stain-resistant type).
What to watch out for:
- It can stain and trap allergens.
- It wears down faster in high-traffic areas.
- It needs regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning.
Pro tip: Go for a low-pile or loop carpet in busy areas—it holds up better and is easier to clean.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The MVP of Modern Flooring
LVP is having a moment—and for good reason. It looks like wood or stone, but it’s waterproof, super durable, and easy to maintain. It’s basically the flooring version of a superhero.
Why it’s awesome:
- It’s waterproof. Seriously. Great for basements, entryways, and anywhere spills happen.
- It’s pet- and kid-friendly.
- It’s affordable and easy to install.
What to watch out for:
- It can feel a bit less “premium” than real wood.
- Some cheaper versions may fade in direct sunlight.
Pro tip: Look for LVP with a thick wear layer (at least 20 mil) if you want it to last longer and resist scratches.
Tile: Not Just for Kitchens and Bathrooms
Tile isn’t just for wet areas anymore. It’s a bold, durable choice for entryways, sunrooms, and even living rooms—especially if you’ve got radiant floor heating.
Why it’s awesome:
- It’s nearly indestructible.
- It’s easy to clean and doesn’t stain
- It comes in endless styles, from sleek and modern to colorful and artistic.
What to watch out for:
- It’s cold and hard underfoot.
- It can crack if your subfloor isn’t perfect.
- Grout lines need regular cleaning and sealing.
Pro tip: Use large-format tiles to reduce grout lines and create a more seamless look.
Room-by-Room Breakdown
Now that we’ve explored many of the flooring options, their pros and cons, let’s match the right flooring to the right space:
Living Room
Top picks: Hardwood, LVP, Laminate
Why: You want something stylish and durable. Hardwood adds elegance, LVP adds practicality, and laminate gives you a budget-friendly middle ground.
Bedroom
Top picks: Carpet, Hardwood, LVP
Why: Comfort is key. Carpet is cozy, hardwood is timeless, and LVP is a great low-maintenance option.
Home Office
Top picks: Laminate, Hardwood, Carpet
Why: You want a quiet, professional vibe. Laminate and hardwood look sharp, while carpet keeps things quiet for Zoom calls.
Hallways
Top picks: LVP, Laminate, Tile
Why: These areas get a lot of foot traffic. You need something tough and easy to clean.
Basement
Top picks: LVP, Carpet (moisture-resistant)
Why: Basements can be damp, so waterproof flooring is a must. LVP is ideal, but carpet can work if you choose the right type.
Entryway
Top picks: Tile, LVP
Why: Mud, snow, rain—you need something that can handle it all and still look good.
Why You Should Call in the Pros
Sure, you can pick out flooring on your own. But working with a designer or renovation company can take your project to the next level. Here’s why:
1. Knowledge - They Know What Works
Designers understand how different materials perform in different environments. They’ll help you avoid costly mistakes and steer you toward smart, stylish choices.
2. Vision - They Make It Look Cohesive
Ever walk into a house where every room has a totally different floor? It feels disjointed. Pros make sure your flooring flows naturally from space to space.
3. Skill - They Handle the Hard Stuff
Measuring, leveling subfloors, cutting around corners—it’s not as easy as it looks. A pro installer gets it right the first time.
4. Variety - They Have Better Options
Designers often have access to higher-end materials and exclusive collections you won’t find at your local store.
5. Peace of Mind - They Save You Time and Stress
Coordinating deliveries, managing timelines, dealing with unexpected issues—let someone else handle the headaches while you enjoy the results.
Final Thoughts: Your Floor, Your Foundation
Flooring might not be the flashiest part of your home, but it’s one of the most important. It affects how your space looks, feels, and functions every single day. Whether you’re going for cozy, classy, or kid-proof, there’s a perfect flooring option out there for every room.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—you don’t have to do it alone. A good designer or renovation team can help you make smart choices, avoid pitfalls, and bring your vision to life.
So when it comes time to upgrade that certain space, know that you can count on Family Home Improvements to bring in their expertise, knowledge and selection to help you make the most of every aspect of that home renovation project. You’ll know that in the end, it will work well, look good and be the right solution for you.
| Tags:Home renovationsFamily Home ImprovementsInterior Renovations |
