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 Today’s homeowners have an abundance of discount flooring options to consider. Those who take their time to learn about the latest materials and styles should find that they can choose flooring that matches the unique needs of their rooms. Carpet Types and StylesCarpet flooring comes in a wide range of types and styles. Some of the most popular carpet styles preferred by modern homeowners include:
Saxony carpet is the most common option found in American homes. The style has a medium-height cut pile, but manufacturers can manipulate the cut pile to create straight Saxony, which has a plush feel, or trackless Saxony, which has a textured look. Berber carpet has looped fibers that make it durable. For many years, Berber carpets were typically found in businesses. Today, though, you can find attractive Berber carpets for homes. Still, homeowners tend to use them in out-of-the-way areas like rec rooms and home offices. Frieze carpets have replaced the shag carpets that were popular during the '60s and ‘70s. Like shag, frieze carpets have long fibers that make it both durable and comfortable. Since frieze has an informal aesthetic, homeowners often use it in basements and family rooms. Cut-and-loop carpets, as the name suggests, use a combination of cut and looped fibers. This combination makes it possible to create diverse designs and textures. People who enjoy complex designs should explore their cut-and-loop options.  Popular Tile Styles and MaterialsMost tile flooring is made from porcelain or ceramic. Some people prefer porcelain tiles because they offer excellent durability and resist stains. Others prefer ceramic tile flooring because it costs less money and comes in a variety of glazes that change its color. Homeowners interested in making floor mosaics will get the best results from ceramic tiles. Over the last couple of decades, manufacturers have developed techniques that give tile the appearance of materials like:
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles have significantly lower costs than these materials. Since tile typically has a 50-year lifespan, its cost comes to just $0.33 to $0.36 per year per square foot, making it one of the most affordable flooring materials available. What to Consider Before Buying Laminate FlooringSome homeowners choose laminate flooring because it has an affordable price, resists damage and is easy to clean. When exploring laminate flooring, though, buyers should consider several factors before they decide which option to choose. Some of the most important considerations include:
Like tile, laminate flooring can mimic the look of various woods and other materials. However, some people feel that laminate flooring does a mediocre job of replicating the appearance of other materials. Getting an authentic look often depends on the specific laminate. For instance, even homeowner’s who wouldn’t install laminate flooring in their living rooms may put them in basements, hobby rooms and other out-of-the-way areas. |
 Explore Wood Flooring Options & InstallationFew flooring materials offer the natural beauty of wood. The features and prices of wood flooring can vary significantly depending on the type of wood that homeowners choose. Buyers who want low prices for hardwood floors should consider domestic wood types like:
Exotic species like Brazilian cherry and Brazilian walnut tend to have higher prices, but they offer interesting qualities that aren’t usually found in American homes. Since wood absorbs water easily, it isn’t the best option for bathrooms and other areas that experience moisture. Over time, exposure to water will warp the boards. Professionals use a variety of techniques to install hardwood flooring. Common techniques include:
Nailing hardwood floor involves driving a nail through the wood plank into the subfloor. Stapling uses a similar technique, but it replaces nails with staples. Gluing allows installers to place wood boards without marring the flooring surface. Locking has become one of the most popular installation options for homeowners. The process, however, only works for hardwood planks that have been designed to fit together. Locking installation doesn’t require any tools since the boards fit together to create a seamless surface. Popular Vinyl CategoriesMany homeowners like vinyl flooring because it has a low price and mimics the appearance of wood, stone and other popular materials. Vinyl floors are also extremely durable and easy to clean, which makes them a convenient option for busy families. Vinyl flooring comes in three major categories:
Manufacturers design plank vinyl flooring to mimic the look of hardwood floors. Homeowners who choose vinyl flooring over hardwood benefit from lower prices and more durability. Tile vinyl flooring comes in individual squares that are relatively easy to install. Companies manufacture this vinyl flooring option to look like natural tile. Sheet vinyl flooring creates a nearly impenetrable barrier that works well in bathrooms and kitchens. A roll of vinyl flooring, however, measures from six to 12 feet wide. If the flooring gets damaged, homeowners have to replace the entire section, which some people find tedious. The Different Types of Stone FlooringStone flooring is made from a wide range of materials. The type of material used affects what the stone flooring looks like. The material also dictates how much the flooring options cost. Common types of stone flooring include those made from:
Given how many types of flooring people can install in their homes, it makes sense to learn about as many options as possible. One of the above flooring materials and styles should fit the needs of any home or office. |
