Choosing the proper flooring material for your home can be difficult. Different materials have their strengths and weaknesses, and you’ll need to weigh them to make a choice.
Vinyl
At less than $5 per square foot, vinyl is the cheapest option. Vinyl can be made to look like almost any other surface, including wood, tiles, or stone. Vinyl flooring is commonly found in densely-populated urban centers like Salt Lake City. It is non-porous, making it resistant mold and mildew. Maintenance is easy. However, it can get damaged easily, and repair can be problematic. Vinyl floors will also not add to your property value and will be most likely seen as negative.
Hardwood
Wood is the traditional or classic choice for many homeowners. Wood is inexpensive, costing $8-$15 per square foot. The big draw of wooden floors is aesthetics. However, wooden floors can be problematic in Utah. It is porous and vulnerable to mold and mildew. Changing temperatures can cause it to expand or contract, resulting in cracks and variations in size. Subterranean termites are also quite common in Utah, and wooden floors will only draw them to your house.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are durable and require little maintenance if properly installed. Like vinyl, they can take on the appearance of wood or any other material. They cost $25-$35 per square feet, but you should buy a few extra tiles in case of damage. Grout lines will need to be resealed every 1-2 years to keep them clean and looking good.
Granite
Natural stone floors are elegant and beautiful. They require quite a bit of investment at $60-$225 per square foot but are guaranteed to increase your property value. Granite is durable and heat-resistant. However, the material is porous, making it vulnerable to stains and susceptible to bacteria. Granite requires constant sealing, and it is particularly vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation. Exposure to sunlight can fade or dull its colors. Like any other stone surface, granite can be very slippery, making them inappropriate for senior homes.
Epoxy Laminate
Epoxy laminate is extremely versatile when it comes to appearance. It can perfectly mimic quartz and granite’s appearance or be made to appear like more fantastic surfaces like clouds or water. It costs around $45 per square foot to install. Epoxy floors are non-porous, highly resistant to chemicals, and require very little maintenance.
Unlike stone surfaces, epoxy laminate is not slippery. Several senior facilities in Draper have switched to laminate floors to prevent accidental falls. However, epoxy laminate is also vulnerable to UV, so make sure to demand anti-UV treatment before installation.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is miles apart from the rough concrete slabs you’re familiar with. It can appear like any natural stone or stained/tinted to blend with your house’s colors. Polished concrete is durable and non-porous. It requires sealing every 2 years and can be a bit pricey at $75-$250 per square foot.
Choosing what floor is right for your home can be a lifetime decision. Opt for the most appropriate flooring for your home because you wouldn’t be able to change it on a whim.
