For years when a person thought of flooring for their home, they automatically thought of carpeting for most areas. Eventually, that changed and more people began using hardwoods or tile. While either of these make a wonderful, easy to clean surface for your floor, there may be some other options you are overlooking.

What Else Can I Use On My Floors?

Below are listed some additional surfaces to consider for your floors:

Bamboo

Similar to hardwood flooring. Some pros are that bamboo is eco-friendly,hypoallergenic, easy to install, very durable, and cleans easily. The price is in the same range as hardwood floors. Cons include the color of bamboo may fade over time, or in direct sunlight. The adhesive can release VOCs, and it is susceptible to water damage.

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Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

Ceramic has stood the test of time. It is extremely strong and durable, comes in most any color or design, stain resistant, easy to clean, can be used indoors or outdoors, are a few of the bonuses of tile. Also, the cost may be lower than many of the other surfaces. Although the materials cost may be low, the installation may be more costly than other floors. Also, the group can sometimes stain or be difficult to clean.

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Cork

This flooring is derived from the bark of the cork oak. Cork is eco-friendly, durable, and heals its own wounds (scratches). It is stain resistant, mildew resistant, and creates a natural, earthy look. Cork is more expensive than most other flooring options. It must be finished properly to remain durable.

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Stone

Stone is a natural surface that may consist of limestone, granite, marble, or other stones. It is the most durable option. It becomes more beautiful with age. Both materials and labor are expensive. It can be slippery when it is wet, and some stone types will stain.

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Floating Wood Tile

Tile is made of a synthetic material that can look like wood or tile. Floating Wood Tile is fairly inexpensive for the materials, and the installation is quick and easy, making that also inexpensive. The tongue and groove system makes adhesive unnecessary. Stain-resistant, easy to clean, and easy to replace if one gets damaged, adds to its charms. Because it is not genuine wood, it cannot be sanded or refinished. It is slippery when wet, and it may show scuff marks.

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Do your homework first to determine which flooring would be best for your home. Take into account the amount of traffic the area has, whether there will be children and/or pets in the area frequently, and your general lifestyle. There are also a number of places where you can get advice, such as Alair Homes. Alair Homes has offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. Also, talk with your local flooring company.