Florida weather not only gives you a bad hair day, but also wreaks havoc on your floors. Because of the heat and humidity, choosing the appropriate flooring for your home can be a challenging task. Florida?s homes are unique and most traditional flooring just won?t last the test of time. If you are changing your floors or installing floors in a new build, there are a variety of flooring materials to consider that will perform well in the extreme climate that Florida is known for.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tile is the most popular flooring option for Florida homes. Both are man-made clay tiles that are constructed by being fired at a very high temperature to reduce the water content of the clay and give the clay shape. Because the tile is made at such a high temperature, it is harder and more durable than other flooring materials, meaning that it will last longer without having to replace it. Tile is very water-resistant and is commonly used in areas such as kitchens, restrooms, laundry rooms and other humid spaces. It comes in a variety of styles, colors and finishes, and can be used on concrete slabs, which most Florida homes are built on.
Tile is very versatile and is often the flooring option used throughout the entire home.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is a synthetic material made mostly from melamine resin and fiberboard, constructed to imitate the look of natural wood with a top wear layer that makes it very durable. While it is known for its durability, laminate flooring tends to absorb moisture, so it is recommended to use a high-pressure laminate if it is the material you choose to go with. This material is made with special glue that reduces moisture absorption, making it more impervious to humidity. Laminate is made to look like real wood and is most often used in living rooms, hallways and bedrooms. Laminate has become more advanced since it was first introduced into the market, and is a good low-cost, durable option.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl Flooring is a popular option for many homeowners, as it can imitate the appearance of wood, while not absorbing moisture as quickly as wood flooring. This makes it a good option for homes in a humid climate. Vinyl flooring works well in kitchens as well as bathrooms, and is available in a variety of design options without the need to compromise on aesthetics.
Engineered Hardwood
Many homeowners consider solid hardwood flooring one of the most beautiful options for a home. Unfortunately, hardwood doesn?t react well to Florida?s humidity. But, a good quality engineered wood floor is ideal for the climate and style of home building Florida offers, as it can be laid directly onto a cement slab. Engineered hardwood floors are manufactured boards made up of several different recycled layers of wood. Typically, each board has five to seven layers, with the top layer being a more durable type of wood such as oak, maple or hickory. Due to the acrylics in the formulation, it is much stronger than real hardwood and the multiple layers make it more moisture-resistant.? Engineered hardwood floors are more expensive than other materials, but look elegant and classy, and can last for many years.
The extreme climate doesn?t have to ruin your floors or deprive you of the aesthetic features you are looking for. By doing research as to which materials are best for your home, you can have the floors you always dreamed of and that will last a lifetime. ?Wayne Wiles offers a vast selection of floor coverings in a variety of brands to meet the needs of most homeowners.
Contact us to schedule a free flooring estimate at (239) 204-5700.
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