By Meghan Belnap
With so many options for flooring, it's hard to know what materials will hold up best in your home. Traditional flooring such as hardwood and tile can be expensive and difficult to maintain, so it's worth considering some more nontraditional alternatives that will last you forever. Let’s explore some of the most durable and unique options available.
Cork Flooring
Cork flooring is a great option for those looking for a durable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood or laminate floors. Cork is a naturally occurring material that is harvested from cork trees, making it an excellent choice for homes with an emphasis on sustainability. It's also fire-resistant, hypoallergenic, and resistant to mold and mildew. Plus, it has thermal insulation properties which help keep your home warmer in the winter months. And its cushiony texture makes it a comfortable choice for any room in the house.
Concrete Floors
Concrete floors are becoming increasingly popular in both commercial and residential settings due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. They are highly resistant to wear and tear from heavy foot traffic or furniture moving around on them; plus they don't require much maintenance beyond regular sweeping or mopping with warm water and a mild detergent. Concrete floors are also quite inexpensive compared to other flooring materials, making them an attractive option for those who want something affordable yet durable. Furthermore, concrete can be stained in virtually any color imaginable; you can even add texture or patterns to create unique designs that reflect your personal style.
Linoleum Floors
Linoleum is another budget-friendly option when it comes to flooring materials; however, this one offers more than just affordability—it offers durability too. Like cork flooring, linoleum is made from natural materials (cork dust and linseed oil) which makes it an eco-friendly choice as well as one that won't fade over time like other synthetic materials might. It's also resistant to moisture damage so it won't warp if exposed to heavy humidity or flooding; plus its antimicrobial properties make it especially ideal for kitchens or bathrooms where spills are likely to occur often. And last but not least, linoleum comes in a wide range of colors so you can easily find one that fits your decorating scheme perfectly.
Engineered Oak Flooring
Engineered oak flooring is a relatively new addition to the flooring market, and it's quickly becoming a favorite among homeowners due to its strength and longevity. Made from layers of real hardwood fused together, engineered oak is much more resistant to wear and tear than traditional solid hardwoods. It also won't warp or buckle like other wood floors often do when exposed to moisture. This type of flooring comes in a variety of colors, finishes, and styles so you can easily find one that works with your home’s design aesthetic. Plus, it has an attractive natural grain pattern that will add warmth and character to any room.
As you can see, there are plenty of nontraditional flooring options available that offer both style and longevity without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for something environmentally friendly like cork floors or something low-maintenance like concrete floors, there's sure to be something out there that will fit perfectly into your home décor while lasting you forever. So don't let yourself get stuck with traditional flooring when there are better options out there—explore the world of nontraditional flooring today!
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons.
