Whether you’re remodeling one room or tackling a major renovation or addition, flooring is a key component of the overall design. The options are many, but your budget, traffic, location, style and needs will steer your selection. Let’s review the various flooring types for function and durability, look and feel — from practical to luxe. Understanding the pros and cons of each material can help you make stylish and smart decisions.
Hardwood
Nothing beats the warmth and timeless appeal of real wood, ever-popular in New England homes of all sizes and styles. Types include solid hardwood (e.g., oak, maple, walnut) and engineered hardwood — a layered construction that handles humidity better.
Pros:
- Long-lasting and can be refinished multiple times
- Adds value to your home
- Available in a wide variety of species, stains and finishes
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Susceptible to scratches, moisture and warping
- Requires regular maintenance
Linoleum
Often confused with vinyl, linoleum is made from natural materials like linseed oil, making it an eco-friendly choice. Linoleum has seen a design resurgence thanks to modern patterns and sustainability-conscious homeowners.
Pros:
- Biodegradable and non-toxic
- Durable and water-resistant
- Available in a range of colors and patterns
Cons:
- Can fade in direct sunlight
- Needs sealing to protect against moisture
- Less luxurious feel compared to other options
Carpeting
Soft underfoot and cozy, carpet remains a favorite in bedrooms and family rooms. Choose from wool for durability with a luxurious touch or nylon/polyester blends.
Pros:
- Insulates against sound and cold
- Comfortable and slip-resistant
- The widest range of costs from affordable mass-produced rolls to the highest luxury custom carpets.
- Available in endless textures and colors
Cons:
- Prone to stains, allergens and wear in high-traffic areas
- Requires frequent vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning
- Not suitable for damp environments like bathrooms or basements
Tile Flooring
Tile is the go-to for high-moisture areas like kitchens and baths, but it can be used to stunning effect throughout the home in foyers, dens and, well, just about everywhere. Each kind of tile has a different personality, performance profile and price range. Some evoke old-world charm, many are perfect for transitional spaces, while others offer sleek high-style minimalism and modernism.
Marble
Pros: Elegant, natural veining, high-end aesthetic, variety of color palettes, timeless
Cons: Porous, can stain easily, requires sealing, pricey
Ceramic
Pros: Durable, easy to clean, budget-friendly
Cons: Can crack under impact, cold and hard underfoot
Porcelain
Pros: Denser than ceramic, water-resistant, great for indoor/outdoor use
Cons: Heavier, requires professional installation, costlier than ceramic
Other Natural Stones (Slate, Travertine, Granite)
Pros: Unique appearance, durable, flexible style, infinite options
Cons: Varying porosity, needs maintenance, cost varies widely, certain trendy stones can become dated
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces. LVF is a high-end, versatile vinyl that mimics the look of natural materials like hardwood or stone. LVP can be installed using various methods, including click-lock, glue-down, or loose lay. This flexibility allows for DIY projects or professional installation.
Pros:
- Looks like wood or stone at a fraction of the cost
- Water resistant, making it a fantastic choice for kitchens, bathrooms and damp basements
- Soft underfoot and quieter than tile
Cons:
- While durable, LVF can scratch, dent under heavy furniture or tear from sharp edges of chair or dresser legs
- It may wear out more quickly than natural flooring
- Doesn’t add the same resale value as natural stone or wood flooring
Whether you crave rustic warmth, soft comfort or sleek luxury, flooring is a foundational design decision that affects every step you take at home. Choose what best suits your lifestyle — and don’t be afraid to mix materials for function and flair! Unsure about how select the best flooring for your design goals and budget? Contact us to set up a complimentary, no-obligation 30-minute phone consultation.
