Whether it's foot traffic, spills, sliding furniture or muddy paws, your floor has to weather it all. Depending on your lifestyle and room design needs, the best flooring materials for you might be the most durable rather than the softest. Use our guide to learn all about the flooring materials and options that will suit you.

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Flooring Options

Hardwood:

Hardwood is one of the longest-lasting flooring options. Though hardwood is susceptible to scratching and denting, it can be restored from almost any condition back to its former glory with a little elbow grease. Hardwood is one of the most expensive flooring materials, but its lifespan makes it a worthwhile investment.

Natural hardwood is susceptible to warping or molding when exposed to moisture, but engineered hardwood – made of layers of hardwood and plywood bound together – is not.

Bamboo:

Made from tough, natural bamboo fibres, bamboo flooring is hard to scratch or dent. It is one of the most durable flooring materials available. Bamboo flooring is excellent if you have active pets. Like hardwood, bamboo flooring's natural fibres don't hold up well against moisture.

Though less expensive than hardwood, high-quality bamboo flooring can cost more than synthetic flooring options but it is much more eco-friendly.

Carpet Tile:

Made from soft, interwoven fibres, carpeting is the natural choice for cushioning your floor. Some carpet types will wear down when faced with daily foot traffic and may tear over time if placed under furniture that is moved around often.

Carpet tends to be absorbent, which means it stains easily and moisture can easily damage the underlying surface. If maintained well, the low cost of carpet flooring can be a massive benefit. If you anticipate a lot of wear and tear, consider investing in a more expensive flooring option with a longer life-span.

Vinyl:

Cost-effective and easy to install, vinyl flooring resists damage and holds up well against heavy foot traffic. Unlike bamboo and hardwood, vinyl is synthetic. Many vinyl flooring types, including sheets, planks and tiles, interlock to keep water from penetrating the floor.

Its smooth, mostly seamless surface is easy to wipe clean. Sheet vinyl flooring is inexpensive given its durability and water-resistance. Luxury vinyl flooring is more expensive than standard vinyl flooring, but it can offer a realistic wood look and texture for less than real hardwood.

Tile:

Scratch and scuff-resistant, flooring tile is an excellent choice for areas that may face a lot of wear and tear, like bathrooms and kitchens. The most durable floor tiles are made of ceramic or porcelain, though stone tile is also an option.

Be careful – tile may crack if heavy objects are dropped on it and cracked tiles must be replaced. The best type of flooring for a bathroom, ceramic or porcelain tile is impervious to water if grouted correctly. Though it can be hard and cold underfoot, tile resists stains and is easy to clean.

Cork:

Spongy and somewhat bouncy underfoot, cork is a natural flooring material that absorbs sound and is bacteria- and allergen-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for households with pets. It does require a little upkeep – it can scratch easily and moisture can cause it to swell and warp. Because cork flooring can be difficult to install, we recommend hiring a professional.

Laminate:

Available in a wide variety of colors and styles, laminate flooring is inexpensive and easy to install. Laminate is very susceptible to dents, scratches, and water damage, so it's a good idea to consider laminate flooring types that have a waterproof coating on them to help them last longer.

Flooring Qualities

If you still aren't sure what the best type of flooring for your home is, consider your lifestyle needs and use the chart below to help you decide.

Flooring Options by Location

Shop flooring by location with the help of the following chart.

Tip: If you're shopping around for a floor that will live well with pets, read our guide on Pet-Friendly Flooring Ideas.