If you are updating your home to better serve your changing needs, one of the most important areas to prioritize is your flooring. It’s not uncommon for adults age 65 or older to fall and experience broken bones or head injuries. To reduce such hazards, make safe flooring choices during your home remodeling project. Here are some of the best flooring options to consider.
Carpeting
Carpet can provide some protection against injury and falls, and is also comfortable underfoot. Take note that this type of flooring doesn’t do well in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens, so you might have to choose a different flooring for these spaces.
If you are using a wheelchair, you might have a hard time navigating on a carpeted floor. However, if you still want carpeting, make sure that its pile is no more than ½-inch thick to avoid trip hazards. The underlying padding should also be firm. High-density foam or felt padding is typically a good choice.
Linoleum
If you are looking for low-maintenance flooring, you’ll appreciate the features of linoleum. Unlike carpeting, linoleum does not trap dust, pollen and other allergens. It’s easy to clean and maintain. And since it is water- and stain-resistant, it works well in bathrooms and kitchens. Linoleum doesn’t offer much cushion, however, and it can be cold underfoot.
Vinyl
Vinyl is hard-wearing and low-maintenance. It is also highly water-resistant, and if you opt for high-quality luxury vinyl, you can have a practically waterproof floor. If you are planning to use this material in your bathroom or kitchen, make sure to ask your interior remodeling contractor to install sheet vinyl specifically since it has few or no seams. The seams in regular vinyl tiles and planks can let water permeate the subfloor, which can cause standing water and moisture damage.
Hardwood, Bamboo & Laminate
These types of flooring are perfect if you prefer a soft, natural look for your floor while ensuring a hard, firm surface. They are also easy to clean and maintain, so keeping their looks won’t be a problem. Hardwood flooring is quite durable too, especially if it receives regular upkeep. However, it’s not sturdy or water-resistant and may not be an ideal option for bathrooms and kitchens.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Huntsville is a locally owned and operated franchise. With our expertise in home renovations, you can rest assured that your specific needs will be met. Call us at (256) 203-9451 or fill out our contact form to start a conversation. We serve customers in Huntsville, Madison, New Hope and many surrounding communities.
