The Earth Beneath Your Feet A guide to choosing flooring

[Huligar]

By Michelle Samar

Whether you’re building a new home or updating your current abode, flooring decisions can be overwhelming. With the mixed blessing of numerous choices comes the question: “What should I choose that will hold up and look great for many years to come?”

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile The most cost effective and easily maintained of the tile category. Many homes have their main traffic areas as well as kitchens and bathrooms done in this common application. Colors, sizes and designer cuts are endless. If you really desire travertine and can’t afford it, there are many imposter ceramics that mimic natural stone so well that it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference.

Travertine and other Natural Stone Tile With costs coming down on this desirable material, travertine installations are on the rise. The benefit to using this natural stone is the amazing movement and variation in each tile. You also have control over what type of sheen to give your flooring when you seal the finished product. If you prefer a formal look choose a highly polished sheen; if your lifestyle and décor are more casual, keep it matte. Special maintenance is required with a natural stone floor, including moping with water and a special cleaner for travertine/marble, not to mention the recommended yearly polishing.

Wood floors are a classic, timeless look. You can utilize this warm, inviting aesthetic, using different materials within this “wood” genre.

Hardwood This is the anchor of the wood category. While it’s available in many plank widths, distressing, and stain colors, there is also an upkeep factor including occasional sanding/refinishing.

Wood Laminate This material retains all the aesthetics of hardwood, including many design choices, but has a more manageable price tag and simple, convenient upkeep.

Bamboo The new “green” wood since the plant is fast-growing; the source is plentiful and renewable and doesn’t impact the environment the way hardwood does. Bamboo is available in many plank widths and colors; and can mimic wood or provide a more exotic style based on personal preference.

Carpet Best in bedrooms, family rooms and anywhere you want some softness under your feet. Carpet creates the coziness factor and is essential for its acoustic value as well. Classic plush is an easy choice, but today’s trends lie in chunky-twisted shags and multi-layered, multi-twisted friezes with more than one color in the mix. Traditional Berbers are making way for their more sophisticated, carved-pattern counterparts. Numerous colors and fiber contents are available with all carpets, including natural wool for its resiliency or a synthetic for easier clean up.

Decorative Marble and granite carved medallions are a great way to amp-up your entry. Mosaic listellos, or borders, can form “area rugs” around kitchen islands or can ground a kitchen table without dealing with the upkeep of a real rug. Placing decorative square accent tiles throughout your home can give your guests a pleasant surprise around every corner. Be creative and choose an unexpected accent to suit your personal style