Considering new flooring? This look at popular materials, price and durability will help you choose the perfect option for your home.
Flooring
Material | Price* / Durability |
What You Need to Know | Photo |
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Hardwood (pictured above) |
$ $ $ $
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Real hardwood is durable and long-lasting. It is not moisture-resistant and must be well-maintained for longevity. | ![]() |
Engineered Wood | $ $ $ $ – $ $ $ $ – ◉◉◉◉ |
Engineered hardwood can be found at lower prices than hardwood. It is available in a wide range of species and is moisture resistant. | ![]() |
Cork | $ $ $ $ – $ $ $ $ – ◉◉◉◉ |
Cork muffles sound and is a great insulator. It is also moisture-resistant and easy to install. | ![]() |
Bamboo | $ $ $ $ – $ $ $ $ – ◉◉◉◉ |
Bamboo flooring comes in many grain variations and colors. Scratches may show easily on the surface. | ![]() |
Carpet | $ $ $ $ – $ $ $ $ – ◉◉◉◉ |
Carpet is soft, muffles sound and is a low-cost option. On the other hand, it absorbs spills and stains easily. | ![]() |
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile | $ $ $ $
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Tile is a tough material that requires little maintenance. Damaged tile is typically easy to repair. | ![]() |
“Technology has made tile look more luxurious than ever before. The old silkscreen process has been replaced with digital printing, resulting in better quality that offers up to 40 different patterns in a single series.” – Tom Wood, President and CEO of Floor Coverings International |
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Natural Stone | $ $ $ $
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Natural stone is soft and porous, making it vulnerable to scratches and staining. | ![]() |
Vinyl and Linoleum | $ $ $ $
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Vinyl and linoleum are resistant to moisture and wear. However, they can peel or tear over time. | ![]() |
“Vinyl is no longer the dirty word it was ten years ago. Top manufacturers of vinyl have introduced rigid core technologies that offer better dent resistance and waterproofing options than the vinyl of the past.” – Tom Wood, President and CEO of Floor Coverings International |
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Find Flooring Pros |
*According to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide, flooring installation typically costs between $1,500 and $4,300. Homeowners spend an average of $3,000.