Jan 05, 2022 | Flooring America
With so many different options for flooring and climates varying across the country, it is true that some flooring materials are far better in certain climates than others. So, how do you know which is the right one for your home and climate? We’ll take you through some options and let you know all the pros and cons of each.
Tile
Whether it’s porcelain, ceramic, or stone, tile is a great flooring option for most climates. It’s long-lasting, incredibly durable, and easily cleans up to look shiny and new again. Tile is cool to the touch and water-resistant, which makes it great for warmer or humid climates. But in colder ones, you might prefer something a little warmer underfoot. Another non-weather-related note about tile that may impact your decision: If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, tile may crack under too much pressure from that type of movement and need to be replaced.
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Available in tile, planks and sheets luxury vinyl is made to mimic the looks of wood or stone and is a great option for colder climates because it doesn’t expand or contract like other natural materials. It’s extremely strong and easy to clean while also being a little warmer to the touch than something like tile. If you’re considering radiant heat under your floors, luxury vinyl’s durability makes it a great option.
Carpet is a great choice for almost any climate. The benefits of a carpet in a cold climate are obvious as the warm fibers help to insulate your home. It’s like a blanket for your feet. But if you live in a damp climate, those fibers can retain moisture that will cause problems with mold and mildew pretty quickly. This means that in wetter climates, carpets will require more frequent care than other less absorbent materials.
If you live in an extreme climate, hardwood floors may not be for you. If it’s too dry, they could crack. But if it’s too humid, they could swell up and buckle. Because of this, hardwood is the Goldilocks of floors when it comes to climates. The good news is that most of these issues can be eased with a high-quality sealant. Talk to a flooring professional when selecting hardwood for your home as certain species and certain finishes might adapt better depending on your home’s climate.
Laminate
Laminate floor design has come a long way and is now almost indistinguishable from real hardwood. So, if you love the look of hardwood but want something that costs less and requires less maintenance, check out laminate floor styles. They have insulation like vinyl floors, so they warm up a little bit faster for your bare feet. You can easily add an extra layer of insulation during installation. But be careful if you live in a wet climate: If water seeps in where the laminate meets the wall, the planks tend to expand and warp. Once that happens, they’ll need to be replaced.
If you are still unsure about the right flooring material for your climate, there’s no one better to ask than your local flooring expert. Every Flooring America is locally owned and operated, so you can rest assured that our flooring professionals know the best floors for your home’s climate.