At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we know that choosing the right flooring can make a world of difference in your home’s appearance, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re remodeling a single room or planning a whole-home renovation in the Birmingham area, understanding the various type of floorings available can help you make the most informed and budget-friendly decision. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common flooring-related questions to help guide your selection process.
What are types of flooring?
There are several main types of flooring used in both residential and commercial settings. Some of the most common include hardwood, engineered wood, laminate, vinyl, tile, carpet, and concrete. Each type offers unique benefits depending on your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic goals. Hardwood, for example, provides a timeless, natural beauty, while tile is ideal for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Laminate and vinyl are popular for their affordability and versatility, and carpet remains a go-to for comfort in bedrooms and living spaces. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we work closely with our clients to assess each room’s needs and recommend the best flooring type for the space.
Is vinyl or laminate better?
The decision between vinyl and laminate flooring often comes down to your specific needs. Vinyl flooring is typically more water-resistant and can even be fully waterproof, making it a better choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. It’s also softer underfoot and quieter than laminate, which can be a perk in busy households. Laminate, on the other hand, tends to offer a more realistic wood appearance and a slightly harder surface that holds up well in high-traffic areas. It is also easier to install in many cases. Both types have come a long way in terms of design and quality, and our team at Reliable can walk you through the pros and cons based on your home’s layout and your family’s needs.
What is the most durable type of flooring?
If durability is your top concern, there are a few standout choices depending on the room’s use. Porcelain tile is among the most durable flooring types available—it resists scratches, moisture, and heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor spaces. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) also scores high in durability, especially in homes with pets or children. For homeowners who love the look of natural wood but want added resilience, engineered hardwood offers a more stable alternative to solid hardwood and can resist warping better in humid environments like we often experience here in Birmingham. Our team can help you select the most durable option that aligns with both your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
What is the most popular flooring?
Trends in flooring evolve, but currently, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is leading the market of types of flooring thanks to its durability, water resistance, and realistic wood-like appearance. It offers the perfect combination of style and practicality for many homeowners. Hardwood flooring remains a classic and is still very much in demand due to its timeless appeal and ability to increase home value. For those remodeling on a budget, laminate continues to be a favorite because it delivers good looks at a lower price point. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we stay up to date on the latest flooring trends so we can help you choose a style that’s both current and enduring.
What type of flooring is best and cheapest?
When you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, sheet vinyl and laminate flooring are two of the most cost-effective choices. Both offer impressive durability and attractive styles that mimic higher-end materials like hardwood or tile. Laminate is particularly popular in budget-conscious renovations because it’s easy to install and maintain while offering good resistance to scratches and dents. Vinyl sheet flooring is another affordable option, especially in moisture-prone areas, although it may not have the high-end appearance of plank or tile styles. We at Reliable believe that “cheap” shouldn’t mean compromising quality—we work with trusted suppliers to ensure you get flooring that’s affordable, stylish, and long-lasting.
What are the categories of flooring?
Flooring can generally be grouped into several categories based on material and construction. These include: hard surface flooring (such as hardwood, tile, and concrete), resilient flooring (including vinyl, linoleum, and rubber), and soft surface flooring (like carpet). Within each category, there are subcategories—engineered hardwood falls under hard surface, for instance, and luxury vinyl plank under resilient flooring. Each category serves a different purpose and excels in specific environments. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we begin every project by understanding your home’s function and style before guiding you toward the right flooring category for each space.
Choosing the right type of floorings doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we pride ourselves on making the selection process simple, informed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen floor, replacing worn-out carpet, or choosing materials for a new build, our team in Birmingham is here to help you find flooring that fits your lifestyle, enhances your home’s beauty, and respects your budget. Let us help you create a space you’ll love for years to come—with the right flooring underfoot.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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