Deciding to install new flooring is just the beginning of the process of getting the new floors you want and need. Once you decide to replace your floors, you and your flooring installers will discuss the type of flooring, color, installation pattern and, in the case of hardwood, the topcoat. The end goal should be flooring that you’ll love. Here are some tips to help you come to the right decisions.
Type of Flooring
Depending on the room or rooms you’re replacing your floors in and your budget, you have many options. In the Tampa Bay area, the most common flooring types are:
- Laminate
- Hardwood
- Engineered wood
- Tile
Tile most often goes in bathrooms, laundry rooms and sometimes kitchens as it’s an ideal material for floors subject to a lot of water. Laminate, hardwood and engineered wood flooring all work well in the other rooms in the home.
Color
Choosing the right color for your flooring is often the most difficult decision. A few things to keep in mind is that dark flooring shows dirt more easily than lighter tones. Scratches will also be more evident in hardwood or engineered wood floors that are dark. Lighter colors will make the room appear brighter and larger.
Installation Pattern
Because today’s flooring comes in many sizes and shapes, you have lots of options for the installation pattern. As flooring installers, we most often install plank style flooring (whether wood or laminate) in straight lines. However, that’s not the only option. Herringbone and chevron are current favorites for smaller rooms, but work in any space. If you’re looking for an artistic touch, consider parquet or asking your flooring installers to install the new floors diagonally. Keep in mind the more complicated the installation pattern, the more materials required and more time to complete, so they cost more.
Topcoat or Finish
Although some pre-finished flooring has options as far as the topcoat, it’s more common that you’ll have an option when your flooring installers install hardwood floors and stain and finish them in your home. The options for topcoat not only include whether you want a water or oil-based finish, but also what sheen you would like. The higher the sheen, the more reflective which can mean that your room seems brighter. However, the shiner the floor, the more the dirt shows too.
Call Authentic Hardwood Flooring
If you’re looking for experienced flooring installers who can help you choose not only the right material, but also the right color, installation patter and finish, call us. We offer free consultations and estimates. Call (727) 786-6330 today to schedule your appointment.
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