So when it comes to the high-traffic areas in our homes, we want to make sure our investment will last for years to come. That’s why finding the best flooring for high-traffic areas is so important.
But how are you to know which flooring would be best? Are there features that you should look for when deciding which will work for your project?
There are actually several options to choose from, for any need and budget. Let’s look at the top choices of flooring that will stand up beautifully in your high-traffic areas.
Engineered and Solid Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is an incredibly popular choice for homes these days. And if you’re one that loves it as well but thinks it’s out of the question on high-traffic floors – think again.Hardwood can be known for collecting scratches and dings. But if you choose a hardwood that is pre-finished with a protectant, or a species of wood that is strong and has a high hardness rating, you’ll have a durable hardwood floor.
However, if the area will be subjected to excessively heavy use, meaning lots of dogs, regular high heel traffic, grit and sand from the outdoors, there may be better options. There are other flooring choices that look like wood but can still give you the stronger durability to stand up to the added abuse.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has the look of hardwood, but much more durable without the high price. It can also replicate the look of stone, tile, and other types of flooring to go with any decor.A laminate floor with a thick layer of melamine resin works the best in high-traffic areas. Look for options ranging from 12mm to 15mm in thickness.
And as far as bang for the buck, laminate flooring is one of the least expensive options when it comes to high-traffic flooring. It’s easy to install and is known to last for 20 years or more.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring has been a durable choice for quite a long time. In fact, it comes with a hardness rating to help consumers know exactly what they’re getting.The PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating ranges on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest. For high-traffic areas, anything rated a 4 or 5 would work best.
And because hardwood flooring is so popular, but not ideal in all high-traffic areas, you can get tile flooring that looks like hardwood. The wood look and durability in one – the best of both worlds.
Natural Stone Flooring
There’s nothing like the look of natural stone. The beauty and timelessness of it is worth every penny it may cost.But not all stone is ideal for high-traffic areas. Make sure to look for stronger varieties of stone, such as sandstone, granite, marble, or limestone.
You also need to make sure you have a subfloor that can handle the weight of the stone. Older homes or aging structures may have shifting foundations which could make for some expensive problems down the road.
Concrete Flooring
While concrete flooring may sound “cold” or harsh, it’s actually anything but. Gone are the days of it looking like a sidewalk. There are now many options to make a concrete floor look amazing and more expensive than it actually is.Some of the treatments that can be applied to a concrete floor are acid-stain, tints, etching, and stamping.
Depending on the look you’re going for, one or a combination of treatments can make your concrete floor look like natural stone, tiles, flagstone pavers, or any other number of options.
And above all else, you know you’re getting a strong, durable flooring that is easy on the budget as well.
Vinyl and Linoleum Flooring
Vinyl and Linoleum are great options when both moisture and high-traffic areas come together.They are also super easy on the pocketbook as well! One of the least expensive options you can find.
Both materials come in sheets or tiles, making them easy to install in no time flat. Plus, they are extremely easy to maintain. A sweep and a wipe down is all that is needed to keep its appearance.
But if you’re looking from something a little fancier, look no further than luxury vinyl tiles. These tiles snap easily together like laminate. Some can even be used with grout, making them look even more like real tiles than ever!
Other Things to Consider
Just because a particular flooring works well in high-traffic areas doesn’t mean it will be the best choice for your high-traffic area.There are other factors to consider when making sure you get a long-wearing, resilient flooring for your needs.
Property Value
The fair market value of a property should be considered when determining which flooring to go with. You don’t want to over or under improve with the type of flooring you install.High-end homes should have a high-end floor. Whereas a rental needs something that can take a lot of abuse and not be expensive to replace if needed.
Location
Also, consider the geographical and physical location of a property.Is there a lot of moisture? A lot of sand and dirt? How about extreme cold or dryness?
All of these elements should play a factor when choosing your flooring. Pick one that will stand up nicely under whatever conditions there may be.
Knowing the Best Flooring for High-Traffic Areas Make Your Decisions Easier
When you know the best flooring for high-traffic areas, you can focus your attention on deciding which one will fit your needs and budget the best.That way you will have peace of mind in knowing your money will be invested in a product that will last and look great for a long time to come.
