Alternative Flooring Options for your Home

The floor of your house will have a significant impact on the overall look and feel. This is why you have to be hyper vigilant when deciding on the flooring materials to use. Besides, the flooring materials will have an impact on your HVAC, health and comfort. This article takes a look at four alternatives that are not hardwood or cork.

BAMBOO

One of the best materials you can use is bamboo. These are floor planks that are made by shredding or slicing stalks of the bamboo grass plant then adhering them back together using resin based adhesive, heat and pressure. In so doing, the adhesive releases volatile organic chemicals into the air of the interior space over time. Always check with the manufacturer before picking bamboo since not all of them have the same level of volatile organic chemicals.

The cost of bamboo floors is the same as that of hardwood. Bamboo is quite easy to install, highly renewable, simple to clean, long lasting, non-allergenic and fire resistant. However, it is important to note that although bamboo is somewhat water resistant, it is prone to water and humidity damage. It is also easy to scratch. The good thing is that bamboo can be refinished based on the thickness of the planks.

CONCRETE

This is the most conventional material that is also considered for the driveway heating systems. It is a stylish option for people who want an industrial type décor. The main benefit of concrete is that it is less prone to damage. It is also easy to care for since all you need is a mop and a seal or wax once every 3 to 9 months. A well maintained concrete floor can last for life. The downside, however, is that concrete floors are cold resulting in snow pile up during winter. However, adding snow melting systems beneath the floor surface helps create heated floors.

STONE TILE FLOORING

Stone tile flooring are both organic and beautiful. They are made from mountain materials which include travertine, marble, slate, sandstone and granite. Each material has its unique properties. Taking the time to understand the properties of each stone will help you pick the right one for floor heating. The good thing is that the stone tile floors can be used both inside and outside the house.

For high traffic areas inside the house or for the patio, you should search for the impervious or vitreous stone. Most of the stones are usually graded for quality with Grade 1 meaning high quality.

CERAMIC TILE

The fourth option is the ceramic tile. This has been around since the ancient times. It is made using clay which is fired in hot ovens and glazed to protect the surface from damage and moisture. The glazed ceramic tile is perfect for the bathrooms, kitchens and the high traffic areas such as the driveway. It is also ideal for persons who suffer from asthma.

The choice of flooring materials will depend on your needs. Any of these ideas will look good in your home. It all depends on what you want to achieve, the maintenance needs and your budget.