Each flooring material reacts differently in different climates. Porcelain tiles, for instance, behave differently than solid wood floors when exposed to humid weather.
So, if you’re getting ready to upgrade your home’s flooring, how do you choose the right material for your climate?
Here, we look at the best home flooring materials based on the weather in your area.
Let’s get started.
Best Flooring Based on Climate
Do you know that remodelling your floors can add up to 70%-80% to your ROI? But you need to install the right kind of flooring, and that decision is, in part, influenced by your local climate. Here are some top options for flooring based on your weather.
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Cold Climate
When temperatures dip, you need to have chosen your floors carefully. Find out what flooring works well in that environment to make your home feel comfortable and cosy.
- Luxury vinyl flooring is at the top of our list. These floors offer insulation while some varieties can accommodate radiant heating. Plus, they are budget-friendly.
- The second is carpet. This type of flooring acts as a natural insulator and works very well in cold climates.
- Engineered hardwood flooring is another great choice if budget is not a factor. It is designed to withstand temperature fluctuations and is a good addition to your property. Some engineered planks also allow radiant heating. Ask your contractor if the engineered flooring of your choice allows this.
- Porcelain tiles are also a great long-term option and allow radiant heating. Make sure to check out fresh new porcelain tile designs before installing your own.
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Humid Climate
A humid climate is tricky. When choosing flooring for this type of climate, you need to pay attention to your subfloor. Here are some of our top recommendations.
- Porcelain tiles are highly waterproof and the best choice for fighting humidity. If you live in a coastal region, this is your best option. Porcelain tiles can be easily installed both indoors and outdoors, but make sure you get them put in professionally for best results.
- Vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof and a great affordable choice for humid environments. It’s also a good option for areas like basements, kitchens and laundry rooms.
- Not many types of wood flooring can withstand humid environments. If you have always wanted hardwood floors and don’t want to compromise, look for American beech, Western Australian mahogany, or hickory.
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Dry Climate
Dry weather can also harm your floors. Here are some of your best options.
- Solid hardwood flooring is a great choice for this type of weather. This is because low moisture levels in the air mean less of a chance of the wood being affected by it. In this type of climate, you have a wide range of solid wood species you can choose for your home or office.
- Laminate is also another great option. This type of flooring resembles hardwood but is considerably cheaper.
- Stone flooring like marble or granite is an excellent option for dry climates. It is extremely durable and improves the return on the investment you’re making in your property, much like solid hardwood. It is great for high traffic areas and can be installed in both residential and commercial spaces but can be expensive.
There are so many home flooring options available that it can become overwhelming. One key factor in narrowing down your choices is to consider the climate in your region. If cold temperatures, dry air or humidity are key considerations where you live, use this advice to choose the flooring that is not only best for your home but that you can afford. Get in touch with flooring experts in your area to get started on your project.