As with most things, there are a wide variety of flooring options to consider when designing your home. Depending on the size and budget of your project, you might opt for exotic hardwood, polished stone, or wool carpeting. Regardless, here are some different types of flooring to choose from.

Hardwood

Considered one of the most common flooring options today, hardwood presents many property-boosting features that add visual appeal and financial value. For starters, hardwood is extremely durable. Its natural composition from oak, maple, black walnut, pecan, or other wood species presents different grains, colors, and plank sizes. It's easy to clean and can increase resale value. 

Ceramic Tile

While used as a common countertop material, ceramic tile also makes for a contemporary flooring material. With many shapes, styles, colors, and textures to choose from, homeowners can create custom flooring patterns to fit any room. Ceramic tile flooring comes in four main finishes: glazed, quarry tile, porcelain, and terracotta. Glazed ceramic tile has a glass-like covering that protects the design while also making spills and cleaning simple. Quarry tile is typically unglazed but provides better traction than glazed because of its rough exterior. Porcelain tile is exceptionally hard and durable and is also stain-resistant. Finally, terracotta is a natural, earthy material you’ll need to seal periodically to prevent staining.

Stone

One material that exudes luxury and a natural appeal is stone. Whether it’s granite, marble, limestone, slate, or another type of stonework, all stone is moisture- and stain-resistant, depending on its hardness. Use a stone sealer on soft stones like sandstone or limestone every couple of years for constant protection. You can seal harder stones like granite or marble every four to five years. It’s best to use textured, skid-resistant stone in areas that frequently get wet, such as kitchens or bathrooms, since wet polished stone can create a dangerous surface to walk on.

Laminate

For a cheaper type of flooring to choose from, go with laminate. This low-maintenance material offers a variety of styles, colors, and patterns. Like engineered wood, a plastic coating covers layers of plywood or compressed fiber. It creates a picturesque effect that looks like real wood or stone finishes. You can install laminate flooring over existing flooring without glue or nails. While laminate floor installation is a popular DIY option, cornering and door jambs require precision and expertise best suited for a professional laminate installer. 

Carpet

Carpet is another common flooring option in homes today. As it’s the most versatile option, the main factor to consider is fibers per square inch: the more fibers, the more durable the carpeting. Carpet is cushioned and helps protect against constant use. Wool is a naturally durable, moisture- and stain-resistant carpeting option, but you can opt for synthetic fibers like nylon, acrylic, polyester, and polypropylene olefin. 

Fortunately, at Design Center we offer every option on this list. If you want hardwood, ceramic tile, laminate, vinyl, stone, or carpet flooring in Portland, Oregon, then give us a call. Our selection of premium brands and products will enhance any room. With our professional team, we’ll be happy to help you find the best flooring or countertop material for your home.