Choosing New Floors for Home Renovations
Posted by | Furniture Reference, Home Improvement | Posted on October 10th, 2011
When doing a home remodel, one hot topic is often whether or not to leave the floors the way they are or to replace them. If they are to be replaced, there is often an additional debate about what type of flooring to use. Several factors play in to the decision, including cost, durability and what type of flooring works best in each room.
Replacement
The present condition of the floor and the room dimensions are perhaps the most critical factors in deciding whether or not to replace existing flooring. If the present flooring is damaged or noticeably worn, the floors should be replaced. If the room’s boundaries are going to change, as far as having walls torn down or major appliances removed, the existing flooring will have to be replaced. If the new purpose of the room differs vastly from the old, then something new will better coordinate with the room’s décor.
Durability
When a home renovation or requires a new floor, consideration is often given to the new flooring type versus the old flooring type. Especially for a brand-new room, what has worked before may be a good candidate. For example, if hardwood flooring has been successful in other bedrooms throughout the home, new hardwood floors for the new bedroom in the basement renovation may be a simple choice. If tile floors have been used throughout the home and are riddled with scuff marks and cracks, the homeowners may wish to go in a different direction for the new room. The purpose and type of wear expected will often dictate the possible use or immediate dismissal of various materials before the homeowners can reach a decision.
Cost
One of the biggest factors in new floor installation is the cost. For do-it-yourselfers, keeping it simple and affordable is often the goal. For those who want it to look right and take their breath away for years to come, a professional installation with a long-lasting, durable surface is a no-brainer. Depending on the goal of the home remodeling project, the floors may be a compromise to other special home features or may be the showpiece for a new addition. Installing a new floor overtop an old floor is also an option. For example, if the homeowners go with hardwood flooring over the tile, this will likely provide a level and sturdy surface for the new hardwood floors.
Compatibility
One of the most important features in choosing a new floor is how it looks. It should blend in well with the room’s decor and suit the needs and taste of those who will be using it the most. The color, design and pattern of the floor should be compatible with the room size, furniture choices, window treatments, lighting, wall coverings and ceiling material.