Flooring – What is the best for you?

Flooring has come a long way in the past few years. There are many different types of flooring: carpet, wood, stone and tile. Each of these can be divided down further into yet more categories. There is a vast amount of flooring available but there is a type out there everyone.

The flooring that is used most and is most highly recognized is carpet. Carpet can be used all throughout the house and is categorized by the cut and design of the fibers. Some fibers are short and left and others are cut more precise and closer together for a cleaner look. Berber is a popular example of carpet. It is a highly durable carpet and is widely used in high traffic areas to hide dirt and stains.

Another choice of flooring is wood. Wood can be divided into 4 categories: laminate, hardwood, bamboo and cork. Laminate is the most popular in the this wood category because of its exact look of wood, even though there is none in the product, and its low price in comparison to hardwood. Hardwood is more durable and can be made from any type of wood. There are more popular types such as oak, maple and cherry and can be stained any color, light or dark.

Bamboo and cork and new comers in the wood category. Bamboo is another cheaper alternative to hardwood and is great for people with allergies. Cork is a softer wood and has a cushioning effect when walked on.

Tile and stone are the final flooring divisions. These two are slowly making the appearance in the flooring department and impressions on homes.

Tile is divided into 3 different categories: ceramic, glass and Saltillo. Ceramic tile is divided into being porcelain or non porcelain and is deciphered by the different colored clay it is made from. Glass tile is more commonly found on walls and is the most artistic out of the tiles. These have the most avenues for creativity such as the size of the tiles, the color and the arrangement. Saltillo tiles are handmade tiles and are dried by the sun. They are then fired in a kiln for a final effect.

Stone comes in 5 different categories: travertine, marble, limestone, slate and granite. Travertine is a natural stone and is made to last. Marble is a high end stone and is used in high traffic areas. Limestone is formed over subterranean water system and is very rugged and durable. Slate is slip-resistant and has a large color spectrum. Granite is most commonly used for countertops but is making its way to the floor. It is one of the hardest stones.