Which type of flooring is going to last the longest? This is an important question that has several different answers, mainly because flooring choices are rarely made just by selecting the most durable material. A stone floor, for example, will last for centuries, but the amount of maintenance needed to keep it looking good, its weight, cost and the functional disadvantages of stone (it’s cold underfoot, slippery when wet and increases the risk of a serious fall injury in vulnerable people) mean that it’s not a frequently selected flooring choice.
In this article, we suggest four flooring options that not only last for decades, but which also have the functional characteristics needed to make them a popular choice in almost any home.
Ceramic Or Porcelain Tiles
Available in a wide range of sizes, colours and patterns, porcelain or ceramic tiles look attractive in almost any setting. If a ceramic tile floor is correctly installed, provided it’s well-cared-for it will easily last seventy years or more. Ceramic tiles are reasonably priced flooring, and, once in place, require little maintenance beyond a brush and mop. They have an impermeable surface, so are unlikely to stain. If a tile breaks, it can usually be replaced with minimal inconvenience.
Porcelain tiles can be slippery when wet and are also prone to cracking if a heavy object is dropped on them.
Vinyl Planking
High-quality vinyl planking is an attractive, affordable and durable flooring. Arguably the most versatile type of flooring on the market, vinyl planking has the appearance and texture of timber, but without the cost, maintenance and durability issues that timber can present. The planks slot together seamlessly, without the need for grout (which is prone to discolouring as time goes on).
Vinyl is resistant to deterioration from UV light, temperature changes, or moisture. It rarely stains and is non-slip. It can be installed over almost any sub-strait, including uneven floors. Warm underfoot and lightweight, vinyl planks are a long-lasting flooring choice for any room in the house.
A high-grade vinyl plank floor will easily last twenty years or more.
Vinyl Sheet
A more affordable option than vinyl planks, vinyl sheet is available in a wide selection of colours and patterns. It’s also available in different thicknesses and weights – a heavy-duty vinyl sheet will easily cope with heavy traffic, making it ideal for hallways, kitchens and other areas where footfall is high.
It has all the advantages of vinyl planking (but usually for a slightly lower price), and will usually last twenty years or more.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a multi-layered, composite flooring that incorporates a photo of real wood to give it its authentic timber look. Easy to install, warm underfoot, lightweight and scratch-resistant, a laminate floor will easily last twenty years or more, with minimal maintenance.
There are various other flooring options available (such as timber or carpet) that may not last as long as the options listed above, but may be the preferred choice for differing reasons.
Find The Perfect Flooring For Your Home Today
For more information on durable flooring, contact the team at Totally Flooring-Gold Coast.
