When you’re building or remodeling a modern home, it is important to know and choose the right flooring. Your flooring sets the tone for your entire space, therefore, it is key to choose something that complements your decor while also being functional and durable. Many flooring options are available in the market and this can make it overwhelming and at the same time confusing to choose the perfect one, especially for people who are not experts and first-time homeowners. According to research and a lot of consultation with many flooring experts and manufacturers on the most modern floors, These are the best flooring options for homes that might help you in making the decision.
The Top 10 flooring options for modern homes in 2023
Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless choice that works well with any modern decor. Its natural texture and warm tones create a cozy and inviting feel, while its durability ensures that it will last for many years. Hardwood flooring is versatile and can be used in different rooms of the house. For a more modern look, choose a wider plank and lighter colors to create an open and airy space.
One major setback however is that Hardwood floors are very expensive to install and are easily affected by water and moisture damage.
However, by weighing out its pros that is; Its versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal versus its cons, Hardwood floors are a good choice for most homes.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl flooring has become a very popular choice in homes in the recent 10-15 years because of its durability, versatility, and ease of maintenance. Its versatility in colors and patterns, allows homeowners to create the exact look they want. Luxury vinyl flooring gives the home the feel and looks of hardwood, tile, or stone, but at a lower price.
Some types of luxury vinyl floors however fade, and although, they might mimic hardwood floors, some people might be thrown off by the lack of authenticity.
Apart from that, they are a very good choice for homes.
Polished Concrete Flooring
Polished concrete flooring is an excellent choice for modern homes because it has a smooth and glossy finish that complements the minimalist aesthetic. It is also extremely durable and easy to maintain. Its versatility makes it an ideal option for both residential and commercial spaces.
The good thing about Concrete flooring is that it can be dyed, stained, or polished to achieve different colors and textures to match your home decor, however, if you have kids and pets, it’s not advisable because any accidents can be very fatal.
Porcelain Tile Flooring
Porcelain tiles have become popular in most homes especially high-end apartments because of their sleek, contemporary appearance which can come in a variety of colors, sizes, and designs. Because they are made from highly heated clay and sand to make a very hard surface, It makes the tiles very durable, water-resistant, easy to clean, and ideal for high-traffic areas such as home corridors and living rooms. Porcelain tiles can also be used in conjunction with other different floor finishes to create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. Large format tiles are becoming increasingly popular, giving the impression of a more spacious environment.
Where porcelain is used in homes with kids, Rags can be used to prevent accidents
Cork Flooring
Cork flooring has become a popular choice in modern homes due to its eco-friendliness, durability, and unique appearance. It is a sustainable material that is made from the bark of cork trees, which regrows after being harvested, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Because of the nature of the material cork floors are very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic (wear and tear).It is also resistant to water, mold, and mildew, making it ideal for high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
One of the key advantages of cork flooring is its comfort. The cushioned surface of cork provides a comfortable walking surface, making it a great choice for homes with kids or pets. Additionally, cork flooring helps absorb sound, reducing noise transmission between floors. This makes it a popular choice for apartments, townhouses, and other multi-family dwellings.
However, there are also some drawbacks to cork flooring. One potential issue is fading, as cork can fade over time, particularly in areas with a lot of sunlight. Additionally, cork flooring can be susceptible to scratching and denting, so it may not be the best choice for homes with heavy furniture or high heels.
Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is an excellent option for modern homes due to its many advantages. As people try to move into floors that are sustainable and eco-friendly, Bamboo is becoming the top of the chart. This is because it can be harvested from its host without killing the plant. This makes bamboo a much more environmentally friendly option compared to hardwood flooring, which requires the cutting down of trees.
More so, bamboo flooring is also highly durable, water-resistant, and long-lasting. Bamboo flooring is also easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep, making it a practical choice for busy homeowners.
One of the unique benefits of bamboo flooring is its natural beauty. It has a distinct look that adds warmth and character to any room that complements the design of any home.
Terrazzo Flooring
Terrazzo flooring is a favorable option for modern homes due to its durability, low maintenance, customization options, sustainability, and unique appearance.
It is made by embedding small pieces of marble, granite, glass, or other materials into a cement or epoxy base. This mixture of very tough materials makes it ideal for high-traffic areas such as entryways, hallways, and living spaces. It is also low maintenance, requiring minimal upkeep and making it a great choice for busy homeowners.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are made of clay and other natural materials that are fired in a kiln at high temperatures to create a hard, durable surface. This makes the tiles very durable and resistant to scratches and wear, which makes them a good choice for high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. They can be designed and produced in a wide range of colors, designs, and patterns,
which makes it easier for anyone to choose because they can complement any decor style in any home. Additionally, ceramic tile is moisture-resistant, which makes it a good option for areas that are prone to water spills or high humidity.
One of the most significant benefits of ceramic tile is its design versatility. Ceramic tiles can be cut and arranged in a wide range of patterns and mosaics, allowing homeowners to create unique and personalized flooring designs. In addition, ceramic tile can be glazed or left unglazed, providing even more design options. The glaze can either add a glossy or matte finish, which can change the look and feel of the tile.
When it comes to maintenance, ceramic tile is relatively easy to clean. Regular sweeping and mopping can keep the surface looking clean and new. However, the grout between the tiles can be a bit more challenging to maintain, as it can collect dirt and stains. Professional grout cleaning or sealing services can help prevent discoloration and keep the grout looking new.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring is a type of flooring that is made of several layers of real wood, topped with a protective layer to enhance its durability. The core layers are typically made of high-density fiberboard or plywood, while the top layer is made of a thin veneer of real wood. The top protective layer helps to make the flooring more resistant to scratches and wear, especially where pets and kids are involved, making it a good option for high-traffic areas like the living room or hallway.
One of the main advantages of engineered wood flooring is its affordability compared to solid hardwood flooring. Engineered wood is less expensive to produce, which means it’s more affordable for homeowners. It comes in a wide range of finishes and styles, so there’s an option for every decor style. Engineered wood is also a good option for homes with pets or kids because it’s more scratch-resistant than solid hardwood.
Maintenance for engineered wood flooring is relatively easy. Abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals can damage the protective layer and should be avoided when cleaning. Additionally, homeowners should be cautious about moisture, as it can cause warping or buckling of the flooring. Spills should be cleaned up immediately, and a humidifier or dehumidifier can help maintain the ideal moisture levels in the home.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is known for its affordability, ease of installation, and durability. It’s also scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it a practical option for high-traffic areas like the living room or hallway and a good option for people living with pets or those having kids in their homes.
One of the significant benefits of laminate flooring is its design versatility. Laminate flooring can mimic the look of real wood, stone, or tile, providing homeowners with a wide range of design options. Additionally, it’s available in a range of colors, finishes, and patterns, making it easy to find an option that complements any decor style.
Another advantage of laminate flooring is its ease of installation. It’s a great DIY option for homeowners, as it can be installed over most existing flooring surfaces without the need for adhesives or nails. Additionally, laminate flooring is available in interlocking planks that can be clicked together, making the installation process even more straightforward.
However, it’s essential to note that laminate flooring has its limitations. Unlike hardwood or ceramic tile, laminate flooring cannot be refinished if it gets damaged or worn over time. Instead, the damaged plank needs to be replaced, which can be a bit more challenging than repairing other flooring types.
In conclusion, the above flooring options are excellent for modern homes in 2023. Each has its unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different areas and lifestyles. It’s important to consider factors like durability, maintenance, and design when selecting the best flooring option for your home.
Also read: Top trends in flooring 2023: whats hot and whats not
