How To Choose Flooring That Fits Your Budget, Lifestyle And Family


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How To Choose Flooring That Fits Your Budget, Lifestyle And Family

(HIT) - Choosing the right flooring for your home can be an overwhelming decision—not only is it a major investment, but the type you choose impacts your home’s style and long-term value. Homeowners should take time to consider several important factors before finalizing their decision. Flooring expert Tom Wood, President and CEO of Floor Coverings International—the world’s largest and oldest shop-at-home floor covering franchise—takes the worry out of floor shopping by answering our most pressing questions.

Q: What are the most important factors to consider before purchasing flooring?
A: Purchasing new flooring can be daunting for some. Consider your lifestyle, budget, the purpose of the flooring and space, your décor, and comfort before making a decision.



	Recyclable Carpet Design Material in Living Room-Photo courtesy of Floor Coverings International

Q: What different types of flooring match different lifestyles?
A: Different types of flooring require different types of care. Someone who leads a busy lifestyle may want to go with a low-maintenance flooring option such as laminate, which closely mimics the look of hardwood, but is easy to clean. Carpet is also a low-maintenance option, but once it gets dirty it may require professional cleanings. Families with children may want to consider stain-resistant carpet because it’s softer than wood or laminate, but still relatively easy to clean. If you have pets, wood flooring makes it easy to clean up after “accidents,” but pets’ nails can scratch the surface. Take time to weigh your options and figure out the best choice to fit your lifestyle.



Bamboo Flooring in Kitchen- Photo courtesy of Floor Coverings International

Q: What are the most budget-friendly options available, and which options are on the higher-end?
A: Cost is a major factor when picking out flooring. As the economy has tightened, there has been an influx of budget-friendly options. There are products that are fantastic for every budget. After establishing how much you’d like to spend, price out your options. Generally, on the hardwood scale, American Cherry is on the high-end, and Red Oak is typically the least expensive. The price range for laminates is similar to hardwoods, but because laminates are low-maintenance and durable, this type of flooring may be a better long-term investment.

Q: What are the most popular types of flooring on the market today?
A: Patterned and textured carpets are very popular right now to add color and texture to bedrooms and living areas. We are seeing more hand-scraped and distressed hardwood as well as wide plank wood as well. Consumers are also getting creative, using tile and stone styles mixed together with different sizes and pieces.

Q: What options are most popular for kitchens right now?
A: There are so many flooring options for the kitchen, but hardwood, stone and tile typically are the most popular choices.



	Hardwood Hallway Flooring-Photo courtesy of Floor Coverings International

Q: What tips can you offer on choosing the right hardwood floor shade?
A: It all depends on the style and décor of the room you’re interested in putting it into. Medium-colored tones are the most popular right now, and many homes are starting to enjoy darker floor colors. Be sure to match your home’s décor when choosing flooring. Choose flooring that will still look good after you change the furniture, paint the room, etc. At FCI, we offer an IT visualization system called FCI InspireNet. This allows homeowners who are working with one of our Design Associates to upload a photo of a room in their home and literally try on thousands of different flooring options to visualize what looks best with their home’s décor.

Q: How do you choose an area rug for your hardwood floor?
A: The area rug should offer a nice contrast. If you have stylish hardwood (exotic or hand-scraped) it is generally suggested to choose a stylish broadloom (standard carpet) and have it bound into an area rug. If you choose a light hardwood—or one without much contrast in the pattern—I would suggest you choose an area rug with some color and style to add to the room’s appeal.

Q: Pick one type of flooring that in your opinion requires the least amount of upkeep.
A: Hand-scraped wood—it’s wonderful, stylish and hides wear and tear.

Q: Any eco-friendly flooring options you would suggest?
A: There are several different ‘green’ flooring options today, but consider trying carpet from reclaimed fibers or wood from renewable forests.

If you need help choosing the right flooring, visit Floor Coverings International at www.floorcoveringsinternational.com.

About Floor Coverings International

Smyrna, Ga.-based Floor Coverings International is a shop-at-home floor covering retailer with over 90 franchises in about 30 states and Canada. The company offers more than 3,000 flooring options from top brands at competitive prices. FCI’s design associates are knowledgeable professionals who bring product and design leadership to consumers when considering their flooring needs, style and budget. FCI’s products include carpet, hardwood, laminates, luxury vinyl, ceramic tile, area rugs and window coverings. Professional installation services are also provided.

FCI was established in 1988 as the first mobile, shop-at-home floor-covering franchise in the United States and Canada.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center

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