A guide to flooring choices in 2023

There is a wide range of flooring materials available, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some common flooring materials and the current popular choices for updating flooring in homes:

1. Hardwood Flooring: Hardwood flooring offers timeless beauty, durability, and a warm, natural look. Common hardwood options include oak, maple, walnut, and hickory. The popularity of hardwood flooring continues to endure due to its versatility and ability to complement various design styles.
2. Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood that mimics its appearance. It consists of a photographic layer covered with a clear protective layer. Laminate is durable, scratch-resistant, and available in a wide array of designs, including wood, stone, and tile looks. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with low maintenance requirements.
3. Vinyl Flooring: Vinyl flooring has seen significant advancements in recent years, offering improved aesthetics and durability. It comes in different forms: sheet vinyl, vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl planks (LVP) or tiles (LVT). Vinyl flooring is highly resistant to moisture, easy to clean, and available in various designs, including realistic wood and stone patterns. Luxury vinyl is particularly popular due to its high-quality appearance and enhanced durability.
4. Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles: Ceramic and porcelain tiles are versatile and durable options suitable for a range of spaces. They come in numerous colors, sizes, and finishes. These tiles are resistant to moisture, stains, and wear. Large-format tiles and subway tiles remain popular choices for a clean and modern aesthetic in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways.
5. Carpeting: Carpeting offers warmth, comfort, and sound absorption. It comes in a wide range of textures, colors, and patterns, allowing for customization. Plush, frieze, and patterned carpets are popular choices. However, hard flooring surfaces like hardwood or laminate are increasingly preferred in main living areas, with carpets often used in bedrooms or specific spaces for added coziness.
6. Engineered Wood Flooring: Engineered wood flooring consists of a real wood veneer adhered to a plywood base. It provides the look and feel of hardwood while offering better resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Engineered wood is a versatile option for spaces where solid hardwood might not be suitable, such as basements or rooms with concrete subfloors.

The most common choices for updating flooring in homes currently tend to be hardwood flooring (including engineered wood), laminate flooring, luxury vinyl planks/tiles, and ceramic/porcelain tiles. These materials offer a range of styles, durability, and value for homeowners looking to update their floors with both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

When selecting a flooring material, consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, budget, location, and personal style to choose the best option that suits your needs and complements your home’s overall design.