Decisions, decisions. Though having options is usually looked at as a major benefit, it can also lead to a healthy dose of what is known as analysis paralysis – freezing up because there are simply too many options at your fingertips. We see this happen all too often with new homeowners trying to figure out which flooring option is right for them – and for good reason. Flooring is often the largest financial investment you’ll make on your new home.

So, what should you do to make sure you make the right choice and break free from the dreaded analysis paralysis? Hopefully, these tips and trends can help you find some steady footing.

Flooring Tips and Trends

1. The “Wood” Look: Whether laminate, vinyl or ceramic tile, anything imitating a wood floor look is very popular. Many choose wood alternatives as these materials are far more durable, yet provide the same visual warmth of a real wood floor.
2. Rectangles Over Squares: Rectangular-shaped flooring, as opposed to square, has seen an uptick in popularity.
3. High-End Gloss: Polished flooring, with a stone look and higher gloss levels provides a high-end look that many new homebuyers find attractive.
4. Enhanced Vinyl: Park Square Homes does not offer sheet vinyl, instead opting for the far more durable, higher quality enhanced vinyl planks with waterproof backing.
5. Durability is Vital: Always consider durability, not just appearance, when making your decision. Flooring, especially hard-surface flooring, is difficult to replace once installed so choosing an option that lasts is important.
6. Area Rugs: Though hard flooring can lead to echo in a room, area rugs do a great job of softening the acoustics.
7. Warranties: Do you know your floor’s warranty? Warranties vary from product to product and should be discussed during the buying process.

Even with these tips, if you aren’t quite ready to take sides on the tile vs. laminate vs. vinyl vs. wood flooring debate, you don’t have to make the decision alone. After you find your perfect home with one our home counselors, a design representative can run through the aesthetic options available for your home. From there, you can make an informed decision after getting all the important facts and considerations squared away.

So, which is the winner in the battle between tile vs. laminate vs. vinyl vs. wood? That all depends on you and your specific needs. Hopefully, knowing the process and understanding some important trends and tips makes the decision a little easier and the process a little less paralysing. Just remember, when choosing the specifics of your new home, you may want to start from the ground up.