How to Choose the Right Flooring to Fit Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right floor for your home is a big decision. It sets the tone for the whole interior of your house, and is the foundation for everything else you put in a room. Your choice should fit not only the way you want your home to look, but also the way your family lives.

“When making a decision about flooring, keep in mind such factors as design options, comfort, warmth, safety and maintenance,” says Piera Marotto of Forbo Linoleum, Inc. “And don’t forget you can have fun with color!”

Each family is unique and will have different demands and expectations for their flooring choice. A large family with kids will have a different set of needs than a retired couple. Pet owners will have particular requirements as well. Allergy and asthma sufferers will need to keep a clean and dust free environment.

For households that have light traffic, carpet is one option. It is an attractive addition to a room and the color choices are virtually unlimited. It is however, high maintenance -- regular vacuuming and shampooing are mandatory, and stains are a constant worry.

Hardwood floors are a classic choice for many homes, and they work with most kinds of décor. However, they are sensitive to climate changes and may expand and contract throughout the year. They are also susceptible to water damage and need constant maintenance. These kinds of floors can also be quite cool in the wintertime.

A flooring choice that has a lot more flexibility is Marmoleum. Made mainly from organic materials, it is an environmentally friendly surface that is easy to maintain and is enhanced by time. Exposure to the air serves to increase its durability, yet it remains a comfortable and warm surface on which to walk.

“Homeowners today want a flooring product that is easy to clean, comfortable to live with and one that looks great too,” says Marotto. “Marmoleum is an exciting alternative.”

Cleaning involves just the occasional dust and damp mopping. Unlike with other surfaces, muddy footprints and other stains don’t sink in. They can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth.

Not only is Marmoleum practical, it can enhance any interior design style from retro to modern to country. Available in sheet or tiles, it can be customized with decorative border and corner pieces. Colors range from solids to cubed or spattered effects and can be mixed in unlimited ways. Some of the color palettes offered include mixed greens, rhythmic blues, grey-dations, sunsets boulevard, and neutral color collaborators.

“If you can imagine it, you can create it,” adds Marotto. “Have fun with it!”