Ever been curious about why certain types of flooring last longer? Want to know exactly what laminate and other floor options are made of? Let’s explore some of the common materials used in the production of residential and commercial flooring.
Sustainable Materials
Many of us have become aware of just how much stuff we throw away. From non-recyclable plastics to food scraps and old smartphones, society has begun to look more closely at the garbage we produce and how it can be repurposed instead of ending up in a landfill. Flooring materials are no different! They need to either be thrown away or recycled. Fortunately for eco-conscious homeowners, there’s never been a better time to repurpose old flooring materials. Materials like hardwood, rubber, and even vinyl can be recycled and given a second life. Many types of vinyl and rubber flooring, as well as laminate, can be produced with partially recycled materials. Wood, cork, and rubber are all renewable resources as well, meaning they can be harvested naturally from trees. Rubber and cork are produced without actually cutting a tree down, which makes them even more sustainable than hardwood.
Why are flooring materials important? Making an educated decision on the materials used in your flooring means considering all the factors that go into the production and maintenance of your floors. Environmental considerations are just one aspect of choosing the right material for your home.
Durable Materials
The type of flooring material used and the quality of that product can greatly influence how long a floor lasts in your home or commercial space. Not every material is made equally, and they all have different levels of quality that depend on the craftsmanship put into their production. Likewise, proper installation can also greatly improve the longevity of floor materials. Resilient flooring options, such as luxury vinyl tile, are a great choice for individuals seeking to maximize the benefits of their flooring. Vinyl is very hardy and can resist scratches, moisture, and heavy foot traffic, which makes it a great option for busy rooms in a home or bustling businesses. Vinyl has many levels of durability, depending on the thickness of the vinyl plank and its wear layer. When shopping for vinyl flooring, look for the wear layer count. Measured in mils (thousandths of an inch), this value directly determines how long vinyl flooring will last. The general rule of thumb is the thicker the better!
Balancing Aesthetics With Everything Else
No matter the type of floor tile material you’re looking for, you’re going to be making a choice that you’ll live with for decades. Not every floor material fits the interior design you’re going for, and sometimes the use case of the flooring may overrule its appearance. For example, many people don’t love carpeting, but it may make the most sense for your space. Carpet is soft, durable, and can last a long time if properly cared for. It’s also a very wise option for homeowners who have small children, as carpeting is very cushiony as they learn to walk and spend a lot of time playing on the floor. High-quality carpeting can last a very long time and can be colored and designed to suit even the most discerning interior designer’s taste. Rubber floor tiles may not be your first instinct as a business owner, but they can provide people with superior safety in terms of traction and support in commercial environments like gyms or garages. Combine rubber’s durability with its sustainability and safety, and it becomes an attractive material choice that you should consider when planning your project.
Get the Right Floor for Your Needs
No matter what you need and what materials you’re looking to work with, you should use high-quality products. Ozburn-Hessey works with only the best flooring manufacturers to suit any budget or project, and we’re ready to answer your call and provide a free consultation and estimate.
