Affordable flooring is a priority, but don’t trade cost for quality.
Unless you have savings set aside specifically for home repairs, it can be difficult to come up with a budget substantial enough to replace an entire floor. As a result, many families scramble to find cheap flooring options that can be easily installed over the course of a weekend.
But selecting a floor covering based on price alone is a risky decision. As with any home renovation, you should put careful thought into the brands and materials you use to pick a floor that satisfies your budget and lifestyle.
Below, you’ll learn about three family-friendly flooring options that are both affordable and durable.
Need vs Want:
When shopping for a new floor, it pays off to prioritize “needs” over “wants.” By putting durability and quality over aesthetics, you can be sure to pick a floor that you enjoy for many years to come.
Affordable, Durable Flooring Ideas
Engineered Wood: Engineered hardwood is an affordable alternative to authentic hardwood flooring. The authentic wooden veneer placed at the top of each plank replicates the look and feel of real timber. The center, however, is crafted from hundreds of wooden fibers that have been condensed into one solid plank.
If you’re considering engineered hardwood, we recommend:
- The Quick-Step ReadyFlor Engineered Flooring.
- The Quick-Step Variano Series.
Sheet Vinyl: Sheet vinyl has been used for decades as an affordable, easy to install floor. Perfect for unexpected renovations, it’s incredibly affordable and comes in a variety of solid and multi-toned colors.
If you choose to install vinyl, we recommend:
- The Quick Step Livvin Series.
- The Preference Bleached Driftwood Planks.
Laminate: Laminate is similar to engineered wood in the sense it is made of multiple layers of materials combined into a solid board. The center core of laminate is composed of dense fiberboards, which is then laminated to create a shiny, hard walking surface. it comes in a variety of colors and textures to add a more personalized touch to your home.
If you choose to install laminate, we recommend considering:
- The Quick Step Classic Laminate Series.
- The Quick Step Eligna Series.
Overall, engineered wood, sheet vinyl, and laminate are all excellent choices for families who need cheap flooring installed right away. Families who prefer the look and feel of authentic timber (and are able to clean up spills and moisture immediately) would enjoy an engineered wood floor. If you plan on installing the floor yourself, sheet vinyl is a great choice, even for those new to DIY home repairs. Finally, laminate flooring is a great choice for families who want the look of hardwood without the responsibility of cleaning up spills immediately.