Choosing Flooring Choosing Flooring

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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
Table of Contents
1
1.
Introduction
2.
Laminate Flooring
3.
Vinyl Flooring
4.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile
5.
Hardwood & Engineered Flooring
6.
Natural Stone
7.
Conclusion
Introduction
There
are many varieties, design and durability options available to the consumer. Picking
and the climate itself. Don’t make this decision on your own; this guide will help you
understand what is available in the industry, the durability of the products, pricing,
designs and ease of installation. After reading this guide, you will hopefully have a
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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
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Laminate Flooring
including stone and hardwood. This is likely the most cost effective option available
to consumers and still provides long-lasting durability. It can be placed in nearly every
area of the home (be careful in damp areas such as bathrooms where moisture
builds). Overall it withstands the scratches and dings of children and dog paws,
especially if it is well cared for.
which helps it resist moisture and warping once installed. The inner layer is made of
from fading and every day wear and tear.
. With a little
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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
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Vinyl Flooring
in sheets and tiles that are easily come together to create an af
as a low-cost comparable option to other high-end stones and woods.
preparation and research for the best tactics to a successful install.
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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
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Ceramic & Porcelain Tile
Ceramic tile is made of natural clay, sand and water. The materials are molded
together to create tiles and then are baked to remove nearly all moisture from the
tile. Although both ceramic and porcelain tile are very similar, porcelain tile tends to
be a more dense, with materials such as feldspar, petuntse, and quartz sand added
if maintained and cleaned regularly. The nice part about maintaining ceramic or
using a vacuum: quick and easy! These tiles are available in a wide variety of colors
and motifs including solid colors and tile that mimics granite. They are also available in
wood colorings if a hardwood feel is what you desire.
Ceramic and porcelain tile do have a slightly higher up-front cost, but the longevity
to ceramic or porcelain tile can save you money in the long run because you will not
cut to size. Advising with a contractor is recommended, at minimum.
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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
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Hardwood & Engineered Flooring
If you are a fan of the wood look and feel but are concerned about durability, solid or
is usually 3/8” to 3/4” thick pieces of hardwood that provide warmth, longevity and
fected by changes
installed correctly).
longevity you receive are second to none. If maintained properly
last you for decades.
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The Ultimate Guide for Choosing Flooring
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Natural Stone
limestone, travertine, granite and sandstone. Each includes different properties, but
• Non-vitreous: Highest absorption level: Should not be used in a moist
environment.
• Semi-vitreous: Less absorbent, but the more liquid it is exposed to, the more
it will hold.
• Vitreous:
• Impervious: Resistant to most water absorption.
Although natural stone has a large up-front cost, this stone will last you for decades
minimum and save you money overall. This stone should be installed by professionals
or under the guidance of one.
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Conclusion
These are some of the most popular choices for flooring in the industry. Installing any
of these floorings will improve the look and feel of your home for years to come.
Have more questions about Barton's flooring options? Be sure to stop by one of our
great stores and discuss your install with our partners who are eager to help!
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