Types of Flooring

Wood laminate flooring makes an affordable alternative to wood. One flooring expert points out that it’s both scratch- and stain-resistant, and usually comes with a long-term warranty. It rides atop a foam underlay, so it can be placed over an existing floor and still look and feel great.

Ceramic flooring is a good choice for almost every room in the house, due to its versatility, relatively low cost and ability to imitate more expensive flooring such as slate, limestone or granite. It is durable and cleans up easily, too, especially with the new grouts now available. One tile expert suggests choosing a dark grout color to avoid staining.

For consumers who insist on real stone, stone tiles are a less expensive alternative to large stone blocks. It can add a seamless look to a home when used on floors, counters and fireplaces.

Cork floors, very popular in Europe, have wonderful acoustical qualities, natural colors and feel warm and springy underfoot. Cork comes as factory-urethaned tiles or floating planks that are fairly easy to install. Experts advise an additional coat or two of urethane once installed in a bathroom or kitchen, though. Cork is harvested from trees every seven to ten years, making it environment-friendly.

Bamboo floors are rising in popularity as an alternative to traditional hardwood floors. As a grass, bamboo is a fast growing and environment-friendly renewable resource. As a floor, bamboo is maintained in the same way as high grade wood floors.

Download our Flooring Comparison Chart.

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