There are many options for flooring in today’s market, and it’s essential to know the facts before you buy. If your house is filled with children and/or pets, this decision becomes even more important. This blog post will help you make a more informed decision by explaining the pros and cons of different flooring options and how they’re suited for pets and kids. Let’s start with laminate flooring before exploring hardwood, tile, carpet, rubber, and vinyl.
BEST FLOORING OPTIONS FOR PETS AND KIDS
1. Laminate
Laminate is the most affordable option, which is important for parents who are often on a strict budget. This low cost doesn’t mean homeowners have to sacrifice style, however, as laminate floors can mimic many other more expensive options. The color, texture, and pattern options are so realistic that they make any room feel like a custom-designed space in no time flat. Laminate is an excellent option for high-traffic areas and rooms with kids or pets. It’s affordable and easy to clean, so it’s cheaper to maintain. Laminate is an excellent option for the kitchen because it can handle everyday spills and dirt. Even if the floor gets wet, you don’t have to worry about mildew, mold, or other harmful bacteria growing because laminate is easy to wipe clean. The best laminate flooring lends itself perfectly to room additions such as family rooms, playrooms, and home offices.
2. Hardwood
Hardwood floors can be a great option if you have kids or pets in the house, but it’s essential to consider several factors before making a final decision. Accidents are common on hardwood floors because they can become quite slippery after cleaning. Placing mats throughout the space can mitigate these risks. Since hardwood is durable and easy to maintain, it can be an excellent choice for classroom floors because it won’t scratch or stain easily. Hardwood is also an option for art and hobby rooms because the natural color makes the space feel more like a craft studio rather than a tool shed.
3. Tile
Kids and pets can be hard on tile floors, but the color and design options make them the perfect choice for some spaces in your home. One downside is that if you have pets, there’s a good chance you’ll have to deal with scratches and other pet-related damage. Use non-slip mats or place rugs strategically so your pet won’t slip or slide on the floor. A tile is also an excellent option for rooms where spills are daily because they can easily be cleaned up. For instance, it’s essential to check for spills just above or below the surface if you have hardwood floors. Tile is often prone to staining, too.
4. Carpet
Carpets are a great choice for pets and kids because they’re so soft. If your little ones like to rough house, it’s best that they do so on a cushion-like surface as opposed to a harder floor. Carpets are also quite durable, though their soft, fibrous nature makes them absorb dirt and dust at a faster rate than harder, smoother floors. Fortunately, cleaning carpets is relatively easy with regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning (e.g., shampooing, steam cleaning). If your pets harbor thick dander, however, you might want to steer clear from carpeting unless you’re able to clean them nearly every day.
5. Rubber
Being stretch-proof, rubber floors are another strong option for kids and pets. Their durability is basically unrivaled by other flooring options, making them a fine fit for nearly any house room where families spend a lot of time, such as lounges and dining rooms. Rubber floors can also be an excellent choice for bathrooms and bedrooms. Consider installing a rubber floor in your basement so kids and pets can roam around safely and make messes that are easy to clean up.
6. Vinyl
We started this list with laminate and are ending it with vinyl, but both options have many similarities. Vinyl floors are highly customizable, waterproof, easy to clean, and durable, making them an excellent solution for the kitchen and other areas designed for daily use. Because vinyl is easy to clean, you can easily wipe all spills off the floor without damaging it. It’s also an excellent option for high-traffic areas because it can handle everyday wear and tear without showing signs of abuse.
Finding Pet-Friendly and Kid-Friendly Flooring for Your Home
Unless flooring is your passion or occupation, you probably don’t know how to install laminate floors, let alone any other floor type. Not to worry – Ozburn-Hessey offers commercial and residential installation services for homes and businesses in the greater Nashville, Tennessee, area. Our services include flooring, acoustical ceilings, and more. To schedule a free consultation and receive a free flooring estimate for your home, call us at (615) 254-1585.
