Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a popular alternative to hardwood flooring. It is durable and can withstand heavy traffic, making it a good choice for large families or families with pets. Laminate comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, so you’ll likely find the perfect match for your home. Laminate is going to be one of the more affordable flooring options, costing between 2 and 13 dollars per square foot. In addition, you can install laminate over the already-existing flooring.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl is another option that can imitate wood floors. Again, there are many colors and styles to choose from. Vinyl flooring is typically cheaper than ceramic or wood, and it is easy to replace. It is comfortable for the feet and it can reduce noise, making it a good option for those with large families. This type of flooring is also water-resistant and stain-resistant. Luxury vinyl is typically somewhere between 2 and 5 dollars per square foot.
There are a couple of things to be careful about when it comes to vinyl flooring. Colors can fade after a while if the floor is exposed to direct sunlight. Vinyl can be damaged by sharp objects and extreme temperatures; for instance, you want to avoid using it in places where it can get wet.
Ceramic Tile
Tile is incredibly durable and easy to clean. It is a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms. You can also get it in just about any style, size, and color you want — this includes tiles that look like wood. Including installation, most tile costs anywhere from 6 to 20 dollars per square foot.
On the downside, while the tile itself is easy to clean, the grout is not. Also, because tile is so durable and hard, if you drop a glass or a dish, the item is likely to break. Keep in mind that tile appearance might vary slightly from lot to lot, so make sure you are buying all your tile from the same lot.
