Whether you’re renovating your own home or working on a project for a client, choosing the right flooring is essential. Let’s face it, it isn’t easy. This is the case whether you’re grabbing materials for your next job or looking for a combination of style, value and durability.
Finding what works can be challenging. This is especially true in Florida homes where in-stock materials that deliver great value are important. Today, we will discuss and compare some of the most popular flooring materials: SPC, LVP, laminate, tile and engineered hardwood. Choose the flooring that fits your home, but always choose a reputable flooring store in Tampa, FL to make sure it’s sourced, installed, and warrantied the right way.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for Flooring Materials
With so many options available, how do you narrow down your options? Your best bet is to ask yourself a few questions. Think about the following:
- Is the space prone to moisture?
- Will this floor get heavy use?
- Do you want comfort underfoot?
- Are you working with a tight budget?
- Is fast installation important?
When you answer these questions for yourself, you can determine what’s most important to you and buy flooring like a pro. After all, this will vary from person to person.
Understanding Different Flooring Materials
There are several flooring materials available, but which one is right for you? Let us help you out. We will discuss what each flooring material is as their pros and cons. Let us break it down for you.
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)
SPC flooring is heavy-duty, waterproof plank, pet-friendly flooring designed to resist wear. It doesn’t matter whether you’re dealing with job site dirt, water spills and heavy foot traffic. These floors are built to last. Consider using these floors in bathrooms entryways, commercial spaces and rental properties.
What makes these floors so great? Check out their benefits below:
- Fully waterproof
- Resists scratches and dents
- Simple cleaning
- Rigid and durable
Despite its many advantages, this flooring material has its shortcomings. These include:
- Harder underfoot than LVP
- Not flexible during install (but faster for pros)
Laminate
When it comes to dry spaces, laminate flooring is one of the best options available. It offers scratch resistance and wood-look visuals, making it ideal for flips and rental properties. Try installing it in a bedroom, office or another low-moisture area.
Why do people love laminate? Well, here are some of the advantages:
- Affordability
- Scratch resistance
- Resembles hardwood
- Straightforward installation
Even with its benefits, there are some downsides to laminate. Consider the following:
- Not waterproof
- Prone to warping when exposed to moisture
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood is generally the most eco-friendly flooring of these four, if you choose it wisely. Engineered hardwood consists of multiple layers of plywood arranged in a criss-cross pattern, a sturdy core and a real wood veneer top. It offers better stability and humidity resistance than solid hardwood, making it perfect for Florida homes. It’s often used in living rooms, bedrooms and other spaces where appearance matters.
What are some of the best parts about engineered hardwood? Here are some:
- Real wood veneer provides an authentic look
- More stable in humid climates than solid hardwood
- Increases property value
Like its counterparts, these floors have flaws of their own. Check them out:
- More expensive than laminate or vinyl
- Not completely waterproof
- Vulnerable to scratching
Tile
Tile almost never goes out of style. It’s quite versatile. In fact, it is waterproof, fire-resistant and low maintenance, making it perfect for Florida’s high humidity. Its most uses are in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and anywhere where moisture is constant.
Why has tile stood the test of time? Take a look at these benefits:
- Waterproof
- Long lifespan
- Available in various styles
- Cools down hot rooms
With that said, tile has a couple imperfections. Think about the following:
- Cold and hard underfoot
- Requires professional installation
- Not as forgiving with dropped items and pet paws
The most important part of shopping for flooring is choosing the option that’s right for you. After all, not every option will work for everyone.
Buy What Works For You
No two homes or job sites are the same. However, the right product is always out there and likely in-stock at Pro City Supply, the most trusted flooring and building material supply store in Tampa. Get started by exploring our Tampa showroom. When you shop with us, you can always count on buying like a PRO!
Ready to shop for quality flooring materials? Contact us today!
