Flooring SOS
When you start looking at new flooring for your home you can really get confused over all the options available. But once you look at what you really need you will start to see that it is possible to make a sensible choice without taking forever. Just ask yourself-
1. Do I Need Hard Flooring or Soft?
Hard flooring is generally more hard wearing and is washable but of course it is hard and sometimes cold underfoot whereas soft flooring (carpet) is harder to keep clean but feels comfortable and warm. If you are installing flooring in a kitchen, bathroom or hall, practicality is more important than comfort so choose hard flooring. If you are replacing flooring in a lounge or bedroom then you have more choice. Is comfort more important to you than practicality? Remember that you can always add a floor rug to soften hard surfaces.
2. Do I Need Waterproof Flooring?
If water may leak onto your floor then do not choose carpet or hardwood flooring which can suffer water damage. This is important in a bathroom or kitchen. Instead choose tiles, vinyl or laminate. Kitchen flooring is a design element as much as it is a practical decision.
3. Do I Need Something Hard Wearing?
For high traffic areas such as halls, stairs and living areas choose hard wearing materials. Any of the hard flooring types will work in this instance but if you prefer carpet then choose wool rather than a cheaper synthetic mix to get the best value for money.
4. What is My Style?
Think about your own style preferences and the style of the room. If you love contemporary styles choose the latest designs – perhaps pale ivory travertine tile or dark wide plank hardwood or laminate. If you prefer a relaxed, homely country look go for lighter colored wood or natural colored carpet. If you are unsure choose a neutral backdrop : beige carpet, cream or white tiles, or medium colored wood and add style later with other objects in your room. You can also use a rug to define your style whether it is a purple shag rug or one of the lovely southwestern rugs around you will find something to suit every room design. If you choose neutral flooring you will be able to change styles later without replacing your flooring.
5. What Colors Do I Need?
If you decide not to go neutral, match up the colors of other items in the room. Perhaps take one of the colors from your curtains or use a color from your key accessories or simply use a darker tone of other soft furnishings you have chosen for the room.