12 Types Of Flooring And What Types Of Flooring Are There
- 2024-11-13
Introduction
Have you ever walked into a house and thought of how attractive the floor was and how you liked the feel on your feet? Well, the owner certainly took ample time to select the best type of floor!
- Introduction
- Common Types of Flooring: Pros and Cons
- Suggestions for Choosing Flooring Materials
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- What types of flooring are waterproof?
- What types of flooring can be heated?
- What type of flooring is best for dogs?
- What type of flooring is best for basements?
- What type of flooring is best for second floors?
- What type of flooring is best for outdoors?
- What type of flooring is best for garages?
- What type of flooring is best for wheelchairs?
- What type of flooring is best for gyms?
- Which type of flooring is good for health?
- Which type of flooring is recommended to reduce falls?
- Which type of flooring is cheapest?
- How many types of flooring should be in a house?
- Two types of flooring in one room?
Flooring is one of the most important things to consider when setting up a space, it is the largest surface in a home. Your choice of flooring will impact the overall look of your interior design and building project. So, it is very important you take time to choose the right flooring when renovating or building a home.
When it comes to flooring, there are a wide array of options to choose from. From engineered hardwood flooring to solid hardwood flooring, laminate flooring, vinyl flooring, tile flooring, stone flooring, linoleum flooring, carpet flooring, bamboo flooring, concrete flooring, cork flooring, rubber flooring, the list is endless. It all depends on your budget, lifestyle, personal taste, and the kind of look you want to achieve.
If you’re a wholesaler who is curious about what is the most durable type of flooring or a building contractor/interior decorator who has a hard time making a choice on the flooring type to use, I advise you to divulge every bit of this article, as I will be sharing broad details on 12 different flooring types, while also highlighting their pros and cons.
Let’s dive in!
Common Types Of Flooring: Pros And Cons
1. Hardwood Flooring
It is one of the most common flooring types because it is made of solid wood, which explains why it is also called “solid wood flooring”. Due to the choice of wood used like oak, maple, and walnut, hardwood flooring lasts longer than most flooring types. It tends to last for 30-100 years, but if not properly maintained, its cons can outweigh its pros.
Pros:
- It has a timeless and natural look and gives the floor a warm look.
- Solid hardwood can be refinished multiple times.
- It is great for resale value.
- It is strong & durable
- It is easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- It absorbs water quickly; it is not water resistant, so quick cleanup is always needed.
- It is prone to dents and scratches, especially in high-traffic areas.
- It can be quite pricey.
- Prone to crowning and cupping
What types of hardwood flooring are there:
- Oak
- Cherry
- Maple
- Walnut
- Ash
- Hickory
- Mahogany
- Bamboo
2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Engineered hardwood flooring consists of multiple layers of wood glued together. The top layer/veneer layer is made with real wood while the underneath layer is made from plywood. These multiple layers make it more stable in areas where traditional hardwood fails—areas like basements or bathrooms.
Engineered wood floors offer the beauty of solid wood flooring but with extra stability and at a more affordable price.
You should also bear in mind that engineered wood flor will differ depending on the wood species used, the grade, the construction technique used, and the finishing.
Pros:
- It has added stability and a natural look
- It is easy to install and it comes with versatile installation options
- Affordablity. It is cheaper when compared with solid wood floors.
Cons:
- It can only be refinished and sanded a few times.
- Prone to water and moisture damage
- Less durable than solid hardwood flooring
What types of engineered hardwood flooring are there?
Based on wood species:
- Oak
- Maple
- Hickory
- Cherry
- Ash
- Acacia
- Teak
- Wenge
- Iroko
- Walnut
- Merbau
Based on the construction techniques:
- 2-layer construction
- 3-layer construction
- Multi-layer construction
Based on the pattern:
- Herringbone
- Chevron
- Parquet
Based on flooring grades:
- A
- AB
- ABC
- ABCD
3. Laminate Flooring
If you have ever walked into an apartment and wondered whether the floor was made of wood, tile, or even stone, you came across a laminate floor. Just like engineered hardwood flooring, it has several layers of synthetic materials that are fused together by lamination. Due to its versatility, it can be used in whatever room in the house.
The laminate floor is also called a “floating floor” because of its installation method — it does not need to be attached directly to the floor, either by nailing or gluing. Rather, a thin padding made of foam is laid beneath it. If you don’t want to break the bank but still need something stylish, you may want to go for laminate flooring. It is often a fraction of the cost, and it’s also stylish.
Pros
- It has tons of designs and is very affordable
- It’s easy to install
- It’s resistant to scratches and durable.
Cons
- It doesn’t handle moisture well.
- It is not as long-lasting as hardwood or tile.
- It can’t be refinished; once it is damaged, that’s all.
What types of laminate flooring are there?
- Smooth
- Embossed
- Glued
- Glueless
- Gloss
- Matt
4. Vinyl Flooring
Most modern apartments are adapting the vinyl flooring type. First, because it is a sight to behold, and also because of its quality. It is similar in look to the laminate flooring but differs in composition — vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials like PVC and fiberglass. This is why it is mostly used in spaces prone to moisture and heavy foot traffic like the bathroom and kitchen because it is super durable and waterproof,
Now, if you are caught between using vinyl or laminate flooring, considering your budget is the way to go, as one is slightly more expensive than the other—vinyl.
What types of vinyl flooring are there?
- Luxury vinyl planks (LVP)
- Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT)
- Sheet vinyl
Sheet vinyl comes in larger rolls and covers large areas without seams. LVP and LVT join together or can be glued down, depending on the type of project you’re working on.
Pros:
- Affordability
- Waterproof and easy to maintain.
- It is scratch and dent-resistant and works well for families with kids or pets.
Cons:
- It feels less natural underfoot.
- It is difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
- It is made from chemicals that may have a chemical odor initially.
5. Tile Flooring
A number of homes in urban areas tend to use tile flooring a lot. It is one of the most popular flooring types due to its high durability and appealing look. Tile flooring is mostly used in bathrooms and kitchens because of its water resistance and durability.
Different types of flooring tiles:
- Ceramics
- Porcelain
- Natural stone
The different types of flooring tiles offer a unique feel and look. Ceramics and porcelain are more popular because of their affordability and versatility, but stone adds a more natural and high-end touch to the floor.
Pros:
- It is very easy to clean and water resistant.
- It doesn’t scratch easily; this makes it extremely durable.
- It fits well in kitchens, outdoor spaces, and bathrooms.
Cons
- It can be hard underfoot and also cold.
- Its installation can be time-consuming and challenging
- It is slippery when wet
- It is prone to chipping
6. Stone Flooring
A quick glance at a stone flooring will immediately register in your mind that it was made out of stone. It is a type of tile that is directly cut out of stone blocks. These stones like granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone, come from minerals found in mountains. Of all the stones, granite is mostly used for stone flooring.
Stone flooring also called “Rigid Core/SPC” comprises four layers that make it 100% waterproof. If you need something grounded and elegant, your ticket might be stone flooring.
Different types of stone flooring:
- Granite: characterized by the absence of veins, extremely hard, highly difficult to scratch, and the presence of various pieces that appear in a speckled pattern that come together to form a stone.
- Marble: characterized by the presence of veins, soft, and scratch easily.
- Sandstone: characterized by the presence of rough grains.
- Limestone
Each type of stone brings a unique color and texture to a room.
Pros:
- Stone flooring is aesthetically pleasing, giving you a luxurious and natural look.
- Highly durable
Cons
- When you don’t seal it properly, it can be prone to stains and water damage
- Stone flooring can also be hard underfoot and cold.
- Requires skilled installation
- Slippery when wet
7. Linoleum Flooring
This is way different from other flooring types in terms of thickness and composition. It is made from the combination of natural materials like linseed oil, pine resin, ground cork dust, sawdust, and mineral fillers (e.g. calcium carbonate) — to make linoleum.
It is made to look like other flooring types due to the addition of pigments. If you have ever been offered vinyl with two different textures at the market, chances are that the softer one was linoleum.
It is resilient to some extent but not entirely waterproof. With care, it can last 20-40 years, especially when protected against moisture.
Pros:
- It is resistance to wear and tear
- It is eco-friendly and budget-friendly; you don’t need to break the bank.
- It can withstand daily use and is durable.
Cons:
- It’s not ideal for outside flooring under the direct sun; it’ll fade quickly.
- You should avoid using it in bathrooms because it’s not entirely waterproof.
- It is susceptible to dents from furniture legs
- It requires professional installation
- It may darken or turn yellow over time
8. Carpet Flooring
Long before tiles and modernized floors started to get in vogue, carpets were used in almost every home — for beautification. It is a floor covering made from different natural and synthetic materials, which are carefully selected, then designed to provide comfort, beauty, warmth, and softness for the feet. It is a great choice for bedrooms, family rooms, and anywhere else you need a little extra coziness.
A carpet comes in different sizes, colors, and design. So, you have the luxury of selecting whatever fits the vibe and aesthetic of your space.
The common types are nylons and polyesters, and their durability differs. Nylon is more durable and resistant to stain. Carpets can also be tricky to keep clean, especially in homes with high traffic and pets.
Pros:
- It also has a wide variety of textures, patterns, and colors.
- It is comfortable and insulating for colder climates.
- It’s more preferred to hard floors because of its quiet nature underfoot.
- Noise reduction
Cons:
- Carpet floors trap moisture, pet hair, and dust faster.
- It is not the best for spill-prone areas or homes with pets.
- It can wear off quickly, especially in high-traffic areas.
- It is difficult to clean
9. Bamboo Flooring
We have all come across bamboo at some point in our lives! Then, we have an idea what bamboo flooring looks like, because they are made out of bamboo. If you’re wondering why bamboo is used for flooring, well it is due to its eco-friendly nature. A fun fact? Bamboo is actually a grass not a tree — it only resembles a tree because of its size and appearance.
The most common type of bamboo used for flooring is the Moso Bamboo, due to its high durability, and it is mostly suitable for outdoor spaces — especially as decking.
Pros:
- It is renewable and eco-friendly
- It is durable, especially strand-woven bamboo.
- It is easy to maintain
Cons:
- Bamboo flooring is sensitive to humidity and high temperatures.
- If it is not well maintained, it can scratch faster.
- Its cost varies, especially if you’re going for high-quality bamboo.
10. Concrete Flooring
Concrete flooring as the name implies is amade out of concrete. It is a glossy, smooth, fine, and flat slab, which can be used in any room/space in the house. Its edgy, modern vibes make it extremely durable. The interesting part is that you can customize it with dyes, stains, or even texture to make it as unique as you want. Concrete is ideal for both outdoor spaces and high-traffic areas. One major advantage is its ability to remain cold in almost all seasons. Carpets/rugs can be used to build up heat during winter.
Pros
- You can customize it with varities of stains and finishes.
- It is incredibly durable
- Stains, dirt, dusts, and spills are easy to clean off
Cons
- It cannot be done without a professional.
- It can crack over time when it is not properly taken care of.
- It is hard and cold underfoot without radiant heating
- It can be slippery
11. Cork Flooring
This floor type is made from the bark of the cork of an Oak tree — this explains its hardness. Cork flooring is a natural choice with great insulation properties. It is mostly used in residential spaces. Commercial spaces that use the cork flooring adapt solely for its durability and aesthetic appeal. When it is used in homes, it is adapted in hallways and landings because of high traffic.
Corks come in tiles or planks and can be glued down or installed as floating floors. It is durable but not the hardest of flooring materials, so it’s best for low-traffic areas. Properly sealed corks have good moisture-resistant characteristics and can last for years, but they may dent with heavy furniture.
Pros:
- It absorbs sounds naturally and is naturally insulating.
- It is cushioned underfoot and comfortable.
- It is hypoallergenic and budget-friendly
Cons:
- It needs sealing to protect it from absorbing moisture
- It has fewer design options
- It is susceptible to scratches and dents.
- It fades in sunlight
12. Rubber Flooring
If you’re a fitness fanatic, medical practitioner, student/teacher, then you most likely come across the rubber flooring almost everyday, because it is mostly used in school, gyms, and hospitals. The rubber flooring is so great at absorbing impact, which explains why it is used in these specific places due to constant motion. It is also slip-resistant, so patients, students, and those who spend time in the gym cannot trip/fall. Although, due to its durability, homes and commercial spaces are adapting the rubber flooring.
Pros:
- It is slip-resistant and can absorb shock well.
- It is suitable for active or high-traffic areas.
- It is waterproof with noise reduction properties
- It is available in tiles, rolls, mats, and sheets
- It is easy to clean
Cons
- Contrary to people’s expectations, it can be more expensive.
- When you install it initially, it may have a mild rubber odor.
Suggestions For Choosing Flooring Materials
Although all 12 flooring types are suitable for use, let’s look at what type of flooring is best. So, if you have difficulty selecting the best one, I’m here to help you.
I have classified these 12 flooring types and rated them across different aspects, so you can have an idea of what is the most durable type of flooring. I rated them on a scale of 1-5 with the standard criteria:
1: Poor, 2: Fair, 3: Good, 4: Very good, 5: Excellent
| Flooring Types | Durability | Maintenance | Affordability | Comfort | Sustainability | Aesthetic appeal | Slip resistant | Noise reduction | Moisture resistance | Ease of installation |
| Solid Hardwood | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| Engineered hardwood | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Laminate | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| Vinyl | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Tile | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 2 |
| Stone | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 3 |
| Linoleum | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 |
| Carpet | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Bamboo | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Concrete | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 2 |
| Cork | 3 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| Rubber | 4 | 5 | 2 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Conclusion
When it comes to flooring, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Choosing the best option involves considering everything from humidity and durability to ease of maintenance and budget. Whether dealing with a high-traffic living room or a quiet bedroom, each material brings benefits and trade-offs. That’s why it’s always a smart idea to discuss your needs and ideas with a reliable flooring manufacturer who can guide you on what works best in your specific space.
For example, tile and vinyl excel in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, while hardwood adds timeless elegance to living spaces. Concrete and stone thrive in high-durability, high-traffic areas, whereas carpet and cork offer comfort for bedrooms. As you decide, think about what each room needs—there’s no single “perfect” flooring, but there is the best choice based on personal preferences and lifestyle.
Your final choice should reflect your daily needs and the style you want to achieve. And remember, you can mix and match flooring types to give different areas their feel. Contact us for more tips on choosing the ideal engineered hardwood flooring.
FAQs
What types of flooring are waterproof?
Vinyl, tile, concrete flooring, rubber flooring, laminate flooring are all waterproof. They are ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
What types of flooring can be heated?
Tile, stone, and concrete are perfect for radiant floor heating, allowing them to stay warm in colder weather.
What type of flooring is best for dogs?
Vinyl, tile, and laminate hold up well to pet claw stains and are easy to clean.
What type of flooring is best for basements?
Vinyl and tile are excellent for basements since they’re moisture-resistant and can handle varying temperatures.
What type of flooring is best for second floors?
Carpet and cork are great for second floors due to their noise-dampening qualities and comfort underfoot.
What type of flooring is best for outdoors?
Stone, concrete, and outdoor-rated tiles are durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for patios and outdoor spaces.
What type of flooring is best for garages?
Concrete is a top choice for garages due to its strength and ability to withstand heavy weights and spills.
What type of flooring is best for wheelchairs?
Vinyl and tile offer smooth surfaces that are easy to navigate and are durable enough to withstand wheel traffic.
What type of flooring is best for gyms?
Rubber flooring is ideal for home gyms since it absorbs shocks, is slip-resistant, and can handle heavy equipment.
Which type of flooring is good for health?
Engineered hardwood, solid hardwood, cork and linoleum are hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, making them healthier options for people with allergies or sensitivities.
Which type of flooring is recommended to reduce falls?
Carpet and cork provide some cushioning, which can reduce the impact of falls, making them safer choices for children and seniors. Engineered hardwood is also a great option.
Which type of flooring is cheapest?
Laminate and vinyl are generally the most budget-friendly options, offering durability and style at a lower cost.
How many types of flooring should be in a house?
It’s common to use different flooring for different spaces, but aim for two to three types per floor level for cohesion.
Two types of flooring in one room?
Combining two flooring types—like tile in a kitchen area with hardwood in a dining space—can define zones within a large room and add visual interest.