Choosing flooring is a significant decision for your home. It impacts the look, durability, and comfort of your space. Here’s what to think about when selecting the right option for your needs.
Flooring Types to Consider
- Hardwood: Timeless and long-lasting, hardwood adds warmth to any room. Solid wood can be refinished several times, while engineered wood offers stability in moisture-prone areas.
- Laminate: Budget-friendly and durable, laminate mimics the look of wood or stone. It’s scratch-resistant but can be damaged by water.
- Vinyl: Available in planks, tiles, or sheets, vinyl is water-resistant and easy to maintain. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) provides a realistic wood look at a lower cost.
- Tile: Works well in kitchens and bathrooms because it’s water-resistant and easy to clean. Materials like ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone are a great choice, each with its own look and feel.
- Carpet: Adds comfort and warmth, making it a popular choice for bedrooms and living rooms. It’s available in different fibers such as nylon, polyester, and wool, so you can pick what suits your space and budget.
Price Ranges
- Hardwood: $8–$15 per square foot for materials. Installation typically adds $5–$10.
- Laminate: $2–$7 per square foot; installation costs about $2–$5.
- Vinyl (including LVP): $3–$8 per square foot; $2–$4 for installation.
- Tile: $3–$20 per square foot, depending on material; installation labor runs $6–$12.
- Carpet: $2–$8 per square foot; installation ranges from $1.50–$5.
Costs can vary by province and retailer. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes from suppliers and contractors in your area to compare. If you’re buying materials directly, consider both national and local retailers or specialized flooring stores for accurate pricing.
Self-Installation Tips
Some flooring types are DIY-friendly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tools: Measuring tape, utility knife, spacers, pry bar, rubber mallet, level, and flooring cutter (or saw).
- Materials: Underlayment, adhesive (for tiles or vinyl), and the flooring of your choice.
- Steps: Prepare your subfloor by cleaning and leveling it. Use an underlayment for floating floors like laminate or vinyl. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully for installation.
Other Considerations
- Room Usage: Choose durable, water-resistant flooring for high-traffic or moisture-prone areas.
- Lifestyle: If you have pets or kids, scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean options like laminate or vinyl may work best.
- Maintenance: Know how much effort each type of flooring requires. Hardwood needs refinishing over time, while tile grout requires regular cleaning.
- Aesthetics: Think about how the flooring fits with your home’s style and color scheme. It’s worth taking your time to compare options and getting samples so you can see and feel how they’ll work in your space.
Picking out flooring doesn’t have to be complicated. Think about how you use each room, your budget, and the look you’re going for. Hiring a pro or going the DIY route, the flooring you choose will have a big impact on the feel of your home. Take the time to research, compare options, and pick what works best for your space and needs.
