If you’ve just purchased your own home or a buy-to-let property, you may find the previous owner’s decor isn’t quite up to the mark. One area where you can make a huge change in a short amount of time is with new flooring. With so many options on the market though, it can be hard to make a choice. Here, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the most budget-friendly contenders to set you on your way to making an uplifting refresh, whether for yourself or to attract new renters.
The pros and cons of carpets
For the quickest fix, carpet is fitted in a jiffy and brings instant cosy vibes. Carpeted floors are also a good choice to muffle sound between floors, so make an excellent choice between rental flats or to keep down kids’ noise! Invest in a good underlay to improve the sound dampening effect and increase softness underfoot.
The downside of carpets is that spills equal stains, so consider darker colours with a tonal weave. Smells can also be locked into soft floor coverings, so consider this option carefully where pets are concerned.
Installing laminate wood flooring
Laminate flooring provides the look of wood without the high price tag. Laminate wood flooring is also ideal for high traffic areas of the home thanks to its scratch-proof durability. There’s a seemingly endless array of colours, finishes, and board widths on the market, so you’re bound to find something to update your space or to fit in with existing decor elements.
The downside of laminate flooring is seen with moisture. When flooring bathrooms and kitchens, choose a waterproof laminate with a moisture-resistant core so that you won’t see buckling and bubbling over time.
Vinyl flooring
An affordable option with a menagerie of finishes, vinyl flooring fits into any budget and aesthetic. Vinyl flooring offers hassle-free installation with durable, waterproof qualities on everything from faux wood and tile to marble and slate effects.
The cons of vinyl flooring are that it can’t be repaired and doesn’t have a positive effect on home resale value. It is also difficult to remove due to the adhesive used during installation.
The next time you revamp your home or buy a diamond in the rough at a property auction, choose flooring wisely to lay a good foundation. Why not use our PAA auction directory to find your next gem?