10 Things to Know Before Buying a New Floor

Whether you’re moving into a new home or renovating, the right flooring can make the space. To find the best option, consider these key factors and ten things to know.

The Installation Location

1. The room’s location and moisture level:  Moisture-prone, sub-level basements and humid bathrooms need flooring that can withstand temperature and humidity changes. Tile and vinyl flooring options work well in these spaces.

2. The room’s level of traffic: For busy living areas, solid hardwood floors and laminate options

are durable and long-lasting, while porcelain tile is especially resistant to scratches and dents. Carpet tiles are easy to install and replace.

3. The amount of sunlight in the space: If rooms have many windows and high sun exposure, opt for fade-resistant laminates and engineered hardwoods.

Your Lifestyle

4. If pets and kids are a factor:  To minimize scratches and make cleaning easy, opt for floors made of tile, hardwood, or cork, which is anti-microbial and sound absorbing.

5. If allergies are a factor:  Hard, flat surfaces that are easy to clean, like tile and hardwood, are a good choice for those with allergies. Cork and bamboo are also natural, allergy friendly options. If you’re looking for carpet, low-pile is best.

The Look You Like Best

6. The color options:  Lighter floors make a room feel spacious and bright, while darker materials add warmth. Natural, neutral tones are versatile for many interiors. Order samples ahead of time to see the color and material in your space. 

7. The size options:  Typically, thinner planks work well in traditional spaces, while wider planks are ideal for contemporary and rustic spaces. To make a cramped space feel bigger, choose wider planks or larger tile.

The Logistics

8. Your budget:  Vinyl and laminate flooring are affordable options. Bamboo planks can be a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood.

9. How much to order:  No matter the material, measure the square footage of the room, then add 10% for flexibility during installation and future repairs.

10. Your installation plan:  Many laminate and vinyl plank flooring options are easy to install over existing surfaces, while professional installation is suggested for solid hardwood and tile flooring.