Choosing the right flooring material is an important decision when redesigning a home. Aside from determining how long the entire home improvement process will take, selecting the best among the most popular flooring materials will decide how the flooring can be used, and the kind of maintenance needed.
There are many kinds of flooring materials available in the market. Here are the most common flooring materials used by Filipino homes.
Hardwood
It is easy to see why hardwood is a favorite among homeowners. If polished and maintained, it is the most beautiful material one can purchase. Hardwood flooring can be an expensive investment with prices depending on the species of wood. Imported materials include oak, maple, and cherry. Mahogany, teak, and molave are less-pricey and locally made.
Over time, hardwood flooring will develop scrapes and dents. But it can be easily refinished to create a brand-new condition for the next years to come.
Engineered wood planks
There has been a little confusion surrounding engineered wood planks, with some consumers questioning its authenticity. Engineered wood planks are literally what its name implies. It is made of a core of hardwood with another layer of hardwood veneer fastened using adhesives at the top surface. The biggest advantage of this material is that it is sturdy and humidity-resistant. They’re also a cheaper alternative to hardwood floors.
Stone Tile
Stone is a stronger material compared to ceramic tiles. There are a variety of natural stones to choose from, including granite, slate, marble, and travertine. Each of these natural stone flooring has different levels of hardness and porosity. Before buying, keep in mind that the amount of care will depend on the stone’s finishes. For example, a polished marble surface will make scratches and scrapes more visible than a tumbled one.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles share a lot in common with stone tiles, but they come at a relatively lower price. Ceramic tiles are one of the most popular flooring materials commonly used in most homes because of their durability and low maintenance.
There is a wide range of ceramic tiles to choose from with each design differentiating in size, color, and finish. These can be installed everywhere in the house, from the outdoor patio to the bathroom.
One big disadvantage of ceramic tiles is that regular maintenance and replacement is required, as these chip and scratch over time.
Laminate flooring
Laminate flooring is quickly becoming one of the most popular flooring materials because of its affordable price, easy installation, and outstanding durability. It is made of an inner core of either fiberboard, or resin material, combined with a photo applique layer through a lamination process.
Laminate products make a wonderful alternative to hardwood, ceramics, and stone tile, as these are the most affordable material on the list. For households with young children and pets, this might be the most logical option.
