Renovating a space requires a lot of decision-making. One of the most significant choices is what type of flooring to install. With so many different types of flooring on the market, it can be hard to know where to start your search.
To help you make the best choice for your space, Mannington Commercial LVT flooring has put together a guide comparing hard surface and soft surface flooring. Keep reading to learn more about the key differences between these two types of flooring and which one might be the best choice for your home.
Hard Surface Flooring
Hard surface flooring is a type of flooring that is made from materials like wood, tile, or laminate. It is a good choice for homes with a lot of traffic because it is durable and can withstand wear and tear. Hard surface flooring also looks great in any home style and can easily clean and maintain.
Types of Hard Surface Flooring
Wood flooring is one of the most popular types of hard surface flooring. It is made from natural wood in various colors and finishes.
Tile flooring is made from fired clay or ceramic in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Tile is a good choice for high-traffic areas because it is durable and easy to clean.
Laminate flooring is made from multiple layers of synthetic materials bonded together. It looks like wood or stone and is easy to install and maintain.
Benefits of Hard Surface Flooring
Hard surface flooring is a good choice for many reasons. It is durable, easy to clean, and can withstand heavy traffic. Hard surface flooring also has a long lifespan, so it is a good investment for your home.
Wood, tile, or laminate options are great choices if you want a low-maintenance option. They are also good choices if you have allergies because it doesn’t trap dust or other allergens like carpet does.
Another benefit of hard surface flooring is that it increases the value of your home. If you ever decide to sell your home,
Drawbacks of Hard Surface Flooring
Mannington Commercial LVT Flooring warns that one of the main downsides of hard surface flooring is that it can be cold and hard on your feet. They recommend pairing hard flooring with an area rug to make it more comfortable.
It is also more susceptible to damage from spills and pets. If you have small children, they may also drop toys or other objects on the floor, which can cause damage.
Hard surface flooring is also more expensive than other flooring types, such as carpet. However, it is a good investment because it will last longer and increase the value of your home.
Soft Surface Flooring
Soft surface flooring is made from carpet, vinyl, or cork. It is a good choice for homes with children or pets because it is softer and more comfortable. Soft surface flooring also has sound-absorbing properties, making your home quieter if you live in a townhouse or apartment.
Types of Soft Surface Flooring
Carpet is one of the most popular types of soft surface flooring. It is made from natural or synthetic fibers and comes in various colors, styles, and textures.
Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials and is meant to imitate the look of wood, stone, or tile. Vinyl is a good choice for high-traffic areas because it is durable and easy to clean. It is also less expensive than other flooring options.
Cork flooring is made from the bark of a cork tree and is available in various colors and patterns. It is also eco-friendly and has sound-absorbing properties.
Benefits of Soft Surface Floor
Soft surface flooring is comfortable, quiet, and available in many colors and styles. It is also easier to install than hard surface flooring.
Carpet is a good choice for bedrooms or living rooms because it is cozy and comfortable. It can easily match your home décor and is also sound-absorbing.
Vinyl flooring is durable and budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, like the kitchen or bathroom.
Cork flooring is eco-friendly and has sound-absorbing properties, making it a good choice for townhomes or apartments.
Drawbacks of Soft Surface Flooring
Keeping soft surface flooring clean is more labor-intensive than hard surface flooring. Carpet, in particular, can be tricky to clean because it can trap dust, dirt, and other allergens.
Soft surface flooring is also not as durable as hard surface flooring and will need to be replaced more often.
Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Home
Mannington Commercial LVT Flooring recommends considering your lifestyle, budget, and the look you want to achieve when deciding on the best flooring for your home.
Soft surface flooring may be the best choice if you have pets or children. It is also a good choice if you want something comfortable and quiet.
Hard surface flooring is a good choice if you want a durable, easy-to-clean option. It is also a good investment because it will last longer and increase the value of your home.
If you are still unsure, consult a flooring specialist to find the best option.
