There’s no question that hardwood floors add a unique elegance to a home. However, some homeowners still have reservations about hardwood due to its infamous upkeep and hefty price tag. Scratches and dents can seem inevitable and you probably know the feeling if you have kids or pets. Luckily, there are countless ways to achieve the look of hardwood without worrying about durability. Here are several options that the team at Floor Coverings International® of Avon Lake suggest for homeowners in the Westlake, Avon Lake, & Avon, OH,Bay Village, Rocky River, Olmstead Falls area who want the best of both worlds.
1. Engineered Vinyl Plank (EVP)
EVP is a type of luxury vinyl plank, the better-looking sibling of traditional vinyl. EVP is nearly identical to hardwood, but with one huge advantage: it’s waterproof! That’s right. Waterproof. You can finally get the look of hardwood in your moisture-prone areas such as the bathroom, kitchen, utility room, or mudroom. EVP is usually less expensive than solid hardwood and many homeowners claim EVP floors look better than engineered hardwood (thanks to hyper-realistic printing technology). Extremely tough and scratch-resistant, engineered vinyl plank flooring is the perfect option for homeowners seeking the beautiful look of hardwood without sacrificing on durability.
2. Wood Look Tile
A luxury of their own, wood look tiles make a great alternative to solid hardwood floors. While they may not fool your guests quite as well as EVP, they’ll still steal the show with their modern elegance. As with any tile, scratches and dents are much less likely to occur than with solid hardwood. Tiles don’t warp in extreme temperature fluctuations or areas with high moisture levels. Just like EVP, you can use wood look tile in bathrooms and kitchens where you wouldn’t want to use solid hardwood. You’ll never have to worry about staining or refinishing with tile either and they’ll last just as long. If you’re looking for an extremely low maintenance option, consider wood look tile.
3. Laminate
It’s not surprising that laminate made this list considering its popularity. Laminate is highly water-resistant and great for high-moisture rooms. These floors don’t require any special cleaning solutions and upkeep is easy with regular mopping. Since laminate can’t be refinished, it will have a shorter lifespan than hardwood. However, laminate doesn't stain like hardwood does and if you have a spill-prone family then laminate is a great option!
Is a hardwood alternative right for me?
If you’re on the hunt for a floor that will outlast your family’s wear and tear, then consider one of these alternatives to hardwood. To learn more, consult the experts at Floor Coverings International® of Avon Lake. Our team can talk you through which hardwood alternative will work best for your lifestyle and bring samples directly to your home with our mobile showroom. Call to schedule a free in-home consultation today!
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