Whether you’ve just moved into a new property or you’re looking to upgrade the look and feel of your current home, new flooring is a great investment. Not only can it add long-term value to your property, but it can also immediately improve the look of your home’s interior. However, there are some questions that you should ask yourself before you hand over your cash.
What Is Your Vision for the Floors?
Before you start shopping for flooring, you should clearly establish your vision for the finished product. Some things to think about include:
- What rooms within the house will the floors be laid in?
- What color flooring do you want? Will this color work well with your walls and interior design?
- If you intend to sell your home in the future, will the flooring that you’re buying add to the value of the property, or could your choice actually put off a potential buyer?
Having the best understanding of the purpose for your upgrade ensures that you’ll be making informed decisions before parting with your money.
Do You Have Any Pets?
If you have pets, the types of flooring that will be suitable for your home might become more limited. For example, if you own dogs, you’ll need to choose flooring that is durable and wear-resistant, like laminate, plank vinyl or porcelain tiles. While hardwood is a popular choice for internal floors, it can scratch easily, and you might find yourself quickly disappointed with your investment if you opt for materials that don’t stand up to the busy lifestyles of pets and their owners. There are a number of guides to pet-friendly flooring that you can take a look at, so make sure to put the time into researching your options before you buy.
What Is Your Budget?
If you don’t have pets and you want to go for hardwood flooring, you’ll likely be adding long-term value to the property of your home, provided the installation is done right. However, this isn’t always the best motivation for flooring selection, as your budget might restrict the options that you have available. Going for luxury vinyl flooring installation instead of hardwood might actually be the best choice if you’re trying to upgrade your floors in a cost-effective way, as the material is significantly cheaper but gives a similar appearance.
How Will Your Flooring Be Maintained?
Finally, you need to think about how your flooring will be maintained. Are you able to perform regular upkeep, or do you need a material that you can clean quickly and easily? Vinyl flooring is a great low-maintenance choice, so if you’re looking for convenience then this should be your go-to. While it looks good, hardwood flooring requires dedicated maintenance, and you’ll need to complete specific upkeep based on the type of wood you choose.
Ultimately, the flooring you select needs to be suitable for your short-term and long-term property goals. When you’re making a selection, it’s vital that you carefully consider the pros and cons of every flooring type available, so that your investment isn’t wasted. Choosing wood flooring is a popular choice, but not everyone understands the dedicated upkeep necessary, so it might be better to opt for vinyl flooring that can leave your home looking fresh.
