Which Flooring is Best for Your Home?

Replacing your flooring is a quick project and one that can make your home more appealing to you and (if you’re thinking of selling) to potential buyers. More than 80 percent of all home buyers say that new flooring is a must-have. The type of flooring that’s best for your home will vary according to your decor, and by the amount of foot traffic in each room.

Carpet

The great thing about carpet flooring is that it comes in hundreds of different colors and textures. If you’re going for a warm, welcoming atmosphere in your home carpet will give you that added touch of comfort. Carpet is perfect for your bedroom, living room, and den. If you have pets in your home, though, you might want to get carpeting that repels pet hair and mold. It’ll make cleaning up much easier and help manage your indoor air quality. In general, carpets with shorter fibers are easier to clean and last longer than varieties with longer fibers. Shag carpets are best suited to parts of your home that you don’t walk through very often. Carpet varieties can last for 10 years or more with proper maintenance.

Vinyl

Vinyl is another durable flooring option that can last for 10 to 15 years or more. Vinyl is made from the same material as PVC piping and does not have any natural ingredients. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns and can be made to mimic pricier ceramic tile. Vinyl gives your kitchen, bathroom, or entryway a clean, modern look. It stands up well to heavy use and has a mold-resistant surface.

Linoleum

Linoleum is similar to vinyl, but it’s made from natural materials like cork and wood flour. Linoleum flooring has the same characteristic shine but can break if exposed to standing water. You’re likely to find linoleum in older homes, but unlike many older materials, it doesn’t typically contain asbestos. Linoleum is more expensive to install than vinyl but lasts for 20 to 40 years. To save time, you can install vinyl or linoleum flooring over an existing floor that’s in good condition.

Composite Wood

Composite wood is a great choice for outdoor projects including decks and pathways, but it’s starting to trend for indoor use. Made from plastic and natural wood, composite wood resists splintering and is less prone to termite infestations. It comes in a wide array of colors and can tie together your indoor and outdoor color schemes. Not only is composite wood extremely versatile, but composite wood will also last for 25 years or more. If you’re going to install composite wood, opt for natural, earthy colors. Composite wood is great for mudrooms, patios and decks, and basements.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is the most durable flooring you can choose. It can last for 50 years or more, even in a busy kitchen or bathroom. It comes in a wide variety of colors and can be used on walls as well as floors. Blue tile in the living room? Consider installing a kitchen backsplash that has blue accents. There are also ceramic tiles that look like wood—perfect for your entryway, living room, or attic.

Visit our Showroom

While you might not know exactly which flooring you should choose for your home, you probably have a few ideas now. Stop into our Des Plaines Showroom and work directly with our experienced designers. Our staff will help you choose the right flooring solution for your needs and budget. The quality of your installed flooring will be an investment in your living space that you will enjoy for years to come. When you partner with Scharm, you are partnering with a local Des Plaines flooring company that offers years of experience working with both residential and commercial customers.