When it comes to flooring, engineered hardwood is one of the most durable options, lasting up to 30 years. But there are other factors to consider when choosing a flooring material, such as the operation of the space, traffic levels, ease of maintenance, and lifespan. Price is also an important factor. Linoleum is more durable than vinyl floor covering and can be cut by hand to form intricate patterns.
However, it cannot be left wet and is prone to scratching if not polished regularly. Laminate floors have a much shorter lifespan than hardwood floors. Solid wood floors can be sanded and restored several times, dramatically extending their life. Hardwood floors are renowned for their unparalleled beauty, natural feel and warmth.
But they also have a significantly longer lifespan than most types of flooring available, lasting up to 100 years with proper maintenance and care. That's why we still see some homes with hardwood floors from the 1850s! When it comes to longevity, many mistakenly consider hardwood floors to be far behind other floor coverings, such as porcelain tiles. In fact, a wooden floor can be used for more than 100 years and still look wonderful and have some story to tell. At Fin Wood, we still maintain the motto: “Made for life”.
However, to achieve this high standard, there are a few details that need to be considered. If durability is the number one criterion for your living room floor, porcelain will be at the top of the list along with ceramics. Premium natural stone is also durable, but check the qualities of each stone with your supplier. Wood is also wear-resistant and can be repainted if damaged. Hardwood floors and laminate floors each have their own place, with their own unique set of values and challenges. Solid wood floors can be damaged by standing water and flooding, so engineered wood floors are a better option in these situations.
There are many types of natural floors suitable for a living room. Engineered wood floors look almost identical to hardwood on the surface but are made of a high-quality plywood core with a thin layer of hardwood flooring on top. Luxury vinyl tiles and planks are relatively new to the market but have quickly proven to be very popular due to their durability and versatility. Laminate floors will never pass as real hardwood but can be a useful floor for many situations. Choosing hardwood flooring will prevent you from having to replace it after just a few years. If properly cared for, it can last for decades.
In addition, it's ideal for the home since you can change your decor without running the risk of the floor breaking. Engineered wood floors aren't waterproof but perform better in humid locations compared to hardwood. They offer more flexibility in terms of width. Vinyl floors are low maintenance; all you need to do is sweep them away dirt and crumbs and use a wet mop with floor cleaner to get rid of stains and germs. By thoroughly scrubbing the wooden floor with professional equipment and suitable substances, you can freshen it up. Engineered wood floors look almost precisely like solid hardwood so they rarely discourage potential buyers. Ceramic tile, natural stone and brick floors are rightly considered the gold standard in terms of maximum floor durability.
If softness and warmth are high on your list of desirable qualities, it has to be a rug or a natural floor. Vinyl floors are an affordable option if you want the look of a hardwood floor without the price.
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