How to Keep Your Floor in Good Condition

Posted on: 29 November 2017

Tile is a good choice of flooring for all areas of the home, but especially in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room and basement, where excess humidity can rot away the padding of carpeting or cause timber floors to soften and warp and to grow mould and mildew. When you're ready to choose tile for any area of the home, you don't want to simply pick the cheapest option, as this can mean flooring that soon looks dull and drab or that is very difficult to clean. Instead, note a few quick tips on choosing tile floors for every room of your home so you choose something durable and attractive.

Texture

Very smooth tile, such as natural stone, is somewhat dangerous in the bathroom and kitchen areas where the floor can be slippery when wet. However, pitted tile is often harder to clean. Choose a textured surface for the bathroom and kitchen but a smooth tile for hallways, entryway, and other areas where you want to avoid having the tile collect dirt, mud and other debris.

Ceramic versus porcelain

Ceramic tiles are more porous, so they are softer underfoot but are only good for use indoors. Porcelain tiles can be placed outdoors or in sunrooms, as their density will help them to withstand rain, snow and bitter cold, although these tiles may seem very hard underfoot. However, that density makes porcelain tiles stronger, so they may also be better for basements, family rooms, mudrooms and any room where there will be heavy foot traffic.

Laminate flooring

Laminate flooring is a type of artificial flooring that is a good choice when you want the look of timber or stone but not the expense. Laminate is also good for rooms where timber may not be a very durable option, such as a bathroom, as mentioned above. This flooring involves several layers of material; there is a subfloor, then an actual photograph or top layer that looks like timber, stone or another material. A protective sealant is put over this top layer.

Laminate flooring is typically installed in sections or slats, just like real timber or stone. Choose a style that will complement the room's overall decor, and opt for smaller slats or sections in smaller rooms and then wide slats or oversized tiles in larger rooms, such as basements. You can even have the same laminate flooring design installed in every room of your home for a cohesive look throughout. Contractors with laminate flooring services can help you choose the right look and style.