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Wooden Flooring |
Flooring 101
by Dawn West
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
Your floor is the base everything else in your home relates to. If you're looking to update and beautify your home, refinish or replace your existing flooring, and you'll hardly believe the metamorphosis. Today there are more flooring options than ever, from laminate flooring to new and improved vinyl flooring. Want help making sense of the options? Here are a few tips.
Change your carpet flooring to laminate flooring and your home will be almost unrecognizable. But is laminate flooring what you really want? When you're making a choice about flooring, it's smart to consider the following.
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Tip #1 - Know your budget
Carpet is generally going to be your least expensive option. Vinyl flooring is another inexpensive choice. So if you're looking to install new flooring in a large area, they're two choices worth considering.
Natural substances like wood and stone are typically the priciest. If you love the look of wood or stone but don't want to empty your savings account, consider laminate flooring. You'll get the same look at a fraction of the price.
Tip #2 - Think about use
Different spaces lend themselves to different substances. Wood floors aren't ideal for moisture-prone areas. You'll want flooring that cleans up easily for kitchens and bathrooms. Flooring in a high-traffic area has to stand up to different stresses than flooring in a seldom used guest room.
Laminate flooring is one of the toughest options out there, so if you're looking for kid-friendly or just generally durable flooring, keep it in mind. Vinyl's durability varies with the quality of the product you purchase. Wood scratches, but one of its beauties is that you can refinish it. Carpet wears, but it's awfully soft in the meantime.
Tip #3 - Factor in Installation
Some types of wood floors are easier to install than others. Laminate flooring is a piece of cake to since it "floats" above the subfloor, meaning no glue, etc. Stone floors are better left to professionals.
Whether you decide for do-it-yourself or professional installation, the important thing is to remember to factor cost-of-installation into to the equation when you're weighing your options.
About the Author
Dawn West is a Senior Columnist for Home Improvement Ideas
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