From budget to style preference, many factors can influence your home flooring choice. To find the best material for your living space, the home remodeling professionals at NorthWest Granite & Flooring in Oak Harbor, WA, have compiled a helpful guide to the four most common flooring types. 

Each of these options harbors pros and cons, from durability to aesthetic appeal. Check out their individual differences below.

Hardwood Flooring

Unlike competing options, hardwood flooring is available in multiple base materials. One of the most appealing factors of this flooring type is its refined appearance. In addition to looking good, it can also increase your home's resale value. Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for pet owners because it’s both durable and long-lasting.

One of the disadvantages of hardwood flooring is sensitivity to moisture. Damage usually doesn’t occur from small spills or pet accidents, but a pipe or roof leak can necessitate the replacement of an entire section. Hardwood flooring is also more expensive than other options.

Laminate Flooring

The biggest advantage of laminate flooring is cost. While it mimics natural wood in appearance, laminate doesn't come close to the price of hardwood installation. This flooring option is also easy to clean.

On the other hand, laminate floors can start to peel after exposure to moisture, so they shouldn’t be installed in bathrooms or laundry rooms. If you do need to invest in a replacement, you’ll spend much less on laminate than hardwood.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is one of the most inexpensive flooring types. Decades ago, it was not the most visually appealing choice, but it's since caught up to the latest interior design trends. Vinyl is also easy to clean.

Unfortunately, vinyl flooring can rip, especially when moving heavy furniture. To avoid home decorating damage, don’t install the material in dining or living rooms.

Carpet

Carpet offers a soft, cloud-like surface, and hides dirt much better than other flooring options. Since pieces can be replaced in small sections, carpeting repairs are far cheaper than wood or even laminate replacements.

The biggest downside to carpet is its susceptibility to staining. It works well for bedrooms, but it's not an ideal choice for highly trafficked areas.

Ready to transform your home with new floors? NorthWest Granite & Flooring offers a broad range of colors and styles, and every installation is accompanied by a lifetime warranty. Call their Oak Harbor office today to schedule your consultation at (360) 675-4978, and take a closer look at their selection by visiting the website.