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Choosing the Right Flooring: A Guide to the Top 5 Materials

how-to-choose-the-right-flooring

Choosing the Right Flooring: A Guide to the Top 5 Materials

Flooring is one of the most transformative elements of any space. It impacts your home’s aesthetics, functionality, and even its resale value. But choosing the right flooring isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about finding a material that fits your lifestyle and long-term needs. At Royalty Flooring, we’re here to simplify the process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros, cons, and insider tips for the top five flooring options: hardwood, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), tile, carpet, and laminate. Let’s get started!

1. Hardwood Flooring

Why Choose Hardwood?

  • Timeless Appeal: Nothing beats the elegance of real hardwood, a feature that never goes out of style.
  • Increases Property Value: Hardwood flooring is a sought-after feature for homebuyers.
  • Durability: Properly maintained, hardwood can last for decades or even centuries.

Insider Tip:
If your home hasn’t been re-piped and is at risk for slab leaks, hardwood may not be the best option. Engineered hardwood, with its moisture-resistant plywood core, is a more stable alternative—but it is still not ideal for high-moisture areas like basements or bathrooms.

Why Not Hardwood?

  • High Cost: Hardwood is one of the most expensive materials to install.
  • Sensitive to Damage: It can scratch, dent, or warp without proper care.
  • Not for Wet Areas: Avoid bathrooms or laundry rooms where water damage is a risk.

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Why Choose LVP?

  • Affordable Luxury: It mimics the look of wood or stone at a lower cost.
  • Waterproof: Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
  • Easy Maintenance: Scratch-resistant and easy to clean—no refinishing needed.

Insider Tip:
While LVP looks convincing from a distance, it lacks the texture and depth of real wood or stone up close. Choose premium brands to avoid peeling or warping from direct sunlight or heat.

Why Not LVP?

  • Shorter Lifespan: It typically lasts 10–20 years, compared to hardwood’s decades.
  • Feel Underfoot: LVP can feel less natural compared to wood or tile.
  • Eco Concerns: Made from non-biodegradable PVC, it’s less environmentally friendly.

3. Tile Flooring

Why Choose Tile?

  • Extreme Durability: Perfect for high-traffic and wet areas.
  • Design Variety: Available in endless styles, including porcelain, ceramic, and stone.
  • Low Maintenance: Resistant to stains, scratches, and wear.

Insider Tip:
Tile increases resale value, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. However, repairing cracked tiles or grout lines can be tricky and often requires replacing a larger section.

Why Not Tile?

  • Hard and Cold: It’s less comfortable for living spaces unless paired with rugs or underfloor heating.
  • Higher Installation Costs: Professional installation is often necessary, adding to the expense.
  • Grout Maintenance: Over time, grout can stain or degrade, requiring resealing.

4. Carpet Flooring

Why Choose Carpet?

  • Comfort: Soft and warm, making it perfect for bedrooms and living rooms.
  • Sound Absorption: Reduces noise, especially in multi-story homes.
  • Budget-Friendly: Typically more affordable to install than hard flooring.

Insider Tip:
For allergy sufferers, low-pile carpets treated to resist allergens and bacteria are a better choice. Avoid using carpets in high-traffic or spill-prone areas, as they wear down quickly.

Why Not Carpet?

  • Stains and Odors: The carpet is prone to trapping stains and smells, especially with pets.
  • Shorter Lifespan: It often needs replacing within 5–10 years.
  • Allergens: Dust and pet dander can become trapped, requiring frequent cleaning.

5. Laminate Flooring

Why Choose Laminate?

  • Affordable Style: Offers the look of wood or tile without the hefty price tag.
  • Durable Surface: Scratch-resistant and perfect for high-traffic areas.
  • DIY-Friendly: Many laminate options are easy to install, saving on labor costs.

Insider Tip:
Traditional laminate with a wood composite core is highly sensitive to water. Opt for waterproof laminate in kitchens or entryways to minimize damage risks.

Why Not Laminate?

  • Moisture Sensitivity: Standard laminate swells and warps with prolonged water exposure.
  • Feel and Sound: It lacks the warmth of hardwood and can sound hollow underfoot.
  • Lower Resale Value: While functional, it doesn’t add as much value as hardwood or tile.

How to Decide on Flooring

When choosing flooring, consider:

1️⃣ Your Home: Does it have old plumbing? Are slab leaks a concern? Avoid wood-based options in high-risk areas.

2️⃣ Your Lifestyle: Do you have kids, pets, or high-traffic spaces? Durable, easy-to-maintain options like tile or LVP may be better suited.

3️⃣ Your Budget: Balance upfront costs with long-term value and resale potential.

Let’s Make Your Flooring Dream a Reality!

💬 Have a flooring question? Let us know! Reach out to our expert Sales Representatives, at [email protected].

📧 Ready for your free project estimate? Contact us today and take the first step toward transforming your space!

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