With kids in the mix, renovation choices can get a little more complicated. We’re often asked what is the most family friendly or best flooring for kids? Today, there are many options that combine beauty with durability. No longer do you have to have to sacrifice style for practicality.
We are here to answer your questions and showcase some of our best options. Join us as we run through our favorite materials that will stand the test of time as well as any challenges your kids can throw at them.
Carpet
Carpet is a great option for when you are looking to warm up a room. It’s comfortable, durable and soft underfoot. Wall to wall carpeting can help prevent slips, insulate against cold and sound, and provide a little extra cushioning when it comes to avoiding accidental falls. Our carpets come in a variety of textures, color and piles, in loop and plush styles. While carpet is durable, it’s best in lower traffic areas, like bedrooms and offices where dirt from the outside is at a minimum. Darker colors can hide stains and spills and provide a soft landing-space for pets and kiddos to play. While carpet does tend to trap allergens and pet dander, a weekly vacuum is really all the maintenance it needs.
Pros: Comes in a variety of styles, colors and textures. Easy to clean and soft underfoot. Great sound insulator
Cons: Permanently installed. Can become matted over time and stained if not cared for properly.
Hardwood
You might be asking what’s the different between engineered and solid hardwood? To start, traditional hardwood planks are milled from a single piece of lumber. They are hearty, provide a natural warmth to the room and can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Engineered wood uses a thin veneer of solid wood over a structural plywood core. This core provides strength and durability that resists buckling and humidity. It is just as durable as solid wood but can be a bit pricier in the long run. Both options come in various stains, graining and width. While easy to clean and simple to care for, hardwood boards can be damaged or nicked in high-traffic areas. It is also susceptible to water damage and scratches.
Pros: Easy to install. Comes in a variety of widths and colors. Wipe and go to keep clean. Easy to repair.
Cons: Can be scratched or nicked. No cushion and can be a slip hazard.
Laminate or Vinyl
Laminate, also known as waterproof flooring, has come a long way from its humble roots and garish patterns. These days, laminate or modern vinyl can mimic the look of natural wood but at a much lower cost. And because these products can be installed right over your existing floor, they are great options for hiding imperfections. When it comes to families, laminate is a great option due to its durability and resistance to stains and dings. While it might not look exactly like real hardwood, it is a popular option for homes with pets. All it needs is a weekly sweep and a yearly deep cleaning.
Unlike laminate, vinyl is an engineered product and does not contain real wood. It is completely waterproof so it resists humidity and buckling and has an exceptionally long life if cared for properly. Vinyl is great for areas prone to dirt and wet and long lasting in high-traffic areas.
Pros: Affordable. Can be laid on top of existing floor (both concrete and wood). Durable with long life. Comes in a variety of textures, colors and patterns.
Cons: Harder on bare feet than carpet. Does not provide as large of a return on investment as hardwood.
Tile
If durability is your concern, tile is an ideal choice for any area of the home – both indoors and out. It’s best in moisture prone areas like laundry rooms and bathrooms and can withstand busy rooms like kitchens and baths without wearing down or suffering damage. It’s cool to the touch, which is great for hot climates, and easy to wipe clean. In addition to being very strong, tile comes in a world of colors, glazes, hardness and finishes. Here at Next Day Floors we offer glazed, unglazed and porcelain options. Glazed tiles are highly resistant to moisture but can become slippery when wet. Unglazed tiles are great for outdoor settings due to the texture and friction they provide underfoot. Finally, porcelain is our top choice for hardiness. Since porcelain tiles are fired at the highest temps, they are the least porous and most resistant to damage.
Pros: Easy to clean. Resistant to damage from kids and pets. Simple to install. Cool underfoot.
Cons: Can amplify sound. Possibility of becoming slippery in wet conditions. Cold in the winter.
