25 Oct Affordable Alternatives to Hardwood Floors

Hardwood flooring is one of the most desirable materials across the nation for homes. However, with the materials and technology available today, there are a variety of alternatives that individuals can choose from that are affordably priced and will enhance value.

Laminate

It’s durable, aesthetically pleasing, and available in multiple styles, colors, and finishes. Laminate is available in planks that emulate the look of real wood, tile or stone. It’s easy to clean, maintain, and it is moisture and scratch-resistant, making it especially suitable for kitchens and bathrooms where spills and staining may be a problem, along with high traffic areas. It’s appropriate for any room in the house and is highly durable making it child and pet friendly.

Tile

Porcelain tile is offered in multiple styles, colors and designs that imitate the look of wood grains, marble and stone. It’s water-resistant, easy to clean, and highly durable. Tiles are available in different sizes that can help create a room that appears larger due to fewer lines of grout. Tile offers a variety of décor options.

Vinyl

The material is available in planks that mimic the high-end appearance of wood flooring. It’s offered in multiple colors, geometric patterns, and offers a highly durable surface. Vinyl doesn’t crack or dent and is easy to care for – an important facet in households with children or pets.

Linoleum

This isn’t the old-fashioned flooring of days gone by. Today’s linoleum is experiencing a comeback in popularity due to an expanded color palette and design options. It can even simulate stone and tiles. The flooring is available in sheets that are glued down or as tiles that snap together.

It makes for a comfortable surface underfoot, but can be damaged by sharp objects and has a tendency to get a yellowish cast when exposed to sunlight. Some manufacturers apply protective coatings to those two problems and it’s important to know if the linoleum has been so treated before purchasing.