How Do You Choose the Right Flooring For Your New Home?

Kaila Sawlor-Dion, August 12, 2019 | Posted in Build; Tagged Interior Selections, Design Considerations, During the Build

When it comes to choosing flooring for your new home, there’s much more to consider than the way it looks.

Where will it be installed?

Flooring that’s suitable for your living areas might not be the best option for your bathrooms or even your basement. Tile is a good bet for high-moisture areas, whether it’s ceramic, porcelain or vinyl. Some vinyl flooring can even be made to mimic the look of wood or stone, offering a natural esthetic while protecting against moisture.

Do you have kids or pets?

Durable flooring is key if you’ll have little feet or paws running across your floor. The last thing you want on your new floors is a big, prominent scratch or damage from a spill.

Hardwood looks nice, but it scratches easily and isn’t the most resistant to spills. Ceramic, porcelain and vinyl flooring are good options again for durability. You might even consider a durable carpet that resists wear and stains.

What about maintenance?

Vinyl flooring is one of the easiest types of flooring to maintain—just wipe and go. Laminate is a close second. Because it can’t get too wet, you’ll want to stick with a damp mop when cleaning your laminate floors. Hardwood is more work to clean and maintain, but it’s a beautiful option for those who don’t need something more durable.

What’s your budget?

Budget is always a consideration when building a new home, and flooring is no exception. There are many laminate and vinyl flooring options in a lower price point, as well as those that fall into the luxury flooring category. Hardwoods are a premium option, although they vary in price depending on the type of wood and finish you’re after.

Your builder can recommend the right type of flooring for the various rooms in your house that will suit your needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve narrowed down a suitable type, the design options are nearly endless—you’ll be sure to find a style you’ll love for years to come.

Kaila Sawlor-Dion

Kaila is the Marketing Manager of Sawlor Built Homes. She continuously updates our profile on Facebook, Instagram, Houzz, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest, and is focused on all marketing initiatives.

A third generation family member of Sawlor Built Homes, Kaila joined the company in 2011. She is an active member of the Canadian Home Builder's Association - Nova Scotia Marketing Committee and she continues to update her education and training, intent on becoming an industry leader in new home marketing.