The Sixth Wall: Choosing flooring for your home remodel

This article was written by  Shawn Vacek of Remodelers of Houston and published in the July 16 2023 edition of the Houston Chronicle.  Read it online 

You’ve decided to replace the floors in your home. Where should you start?

Flooring plays a crucial role in your home, as it contributes to both the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. When looking at flooring options, consider your personal style, lifestyle, budget as well as your durability needs and the required care and maintenance of the different types of flooring.

Should your floors match throughout the house?

Having the same flooring throughout your home can certainly help the space feel more cohesive and consistent. If your home is open concept, the same flooring can also make your space seem larger.

However, there is nothing wrong with using multiple types of flooring in one home. Doing so can help create distinct looks in separate rooms and give you more ways to mix and match as you decorate.

Consider the kitchen

Your kitchen floor takes a lot of daily abuse so having a durable and easy to clean surface is important. Your kitchen is prone to heat, spills, moisture, grit and grime, so consider flooring that can withstand such destructive elements. Engineered hardwood flooring in kitchens has become increasingly popular due to its beauty and durability. Engineered hardwood is made up of several layers of wood, making it more resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood flooring. It’s also more affordable and comes with a variety of options. 

2023 flooring emerging design trends

Traditional hardwood flooring remains a classic choice, but wider planks are gaining popularity. Wide plank hardwood offers a more contemporary and spacious look, adding character and elegance to any room. Gray solid hardwood floors are becoming popular for those who want a sleek and sophisticated look.

There is a growing focus on eco-friendly options, sustainable flooring materials are gaining popularity such as cork, bamboo, reclaimed wood, and linoleum. These are great choices that offer durability and a natural aesthetic.

Luxury vinyl planks and tiles are a favorite among homeowners. They provide the look of hardwood or stone flooring at a more affordable price point. Improved technology has made vinyl flooring more realistic in appearance and texture. They are waterproof, stain, scratch, and fade resistant and easy to clean. A great choice for dog owners.

Terrazzo flooring is making a comeback. This composite material consists of chips of marble, quartz, glass, or other aggregates set in concrete or resin. Terrazzo offers a unique and artistic look, with a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from.

Natural stone floors, such as marble, granite, and travertine, continue to be favored for their timeless beauty and durability. Popular in many spaces including kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.

Concrete flooring complements industrial and minimalist design styles. Polished concrete floors offer a sleek, modern look and are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements.

Choosing flooring for your home remodeling project is one of the most important decisions you will make.  There are so many options to explore and endless features to consider, like color, texture, durability, comfort and price. Consult with a professional remodeler to help guide you through the process.