
Buyer's Guide to Flooring
Type | Pros | Cons | Care Requirements |
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Carpet |
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Tile |
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Hardwood |
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Laminate |
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Vinyl |
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Choose the flooring option that best fits you and your family.
Durability. Floors withstand a lot of abuse from children, pets, and heavy traffic. For high durability you can’t beat ceramic and stone tile or laminate. And even though scratches and dents will show on hardwood, the surface can be refinished and returned to its original beauty.
Moisture Resistance. For rooms that tend to be more humid, such as kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms, select flooring that is more water-resistant, such as vinyl, tile, and certain laminates. (Check with a Diamond Flooring Specialist for product recommendations.)
Longevity. Standing the test of time are stone and ceramic tiles and hardwoods. Most other flooring materials will eventually need replacing.
Maintenance. For flooring that is very easy to care for and maintain, choose vinyl, laminate, or ceramic tile. These surfaces clean up with just a sweep or a damp mop.
Indoor Environment. If you or someone in your family has allergies or other sensitivities, your best choice is a hard floor type, such as ceramic tile, where there is much less opportunity for dust mites and other allergens to thrive.