This article tells about the best flooring for your pets
If you are planning to build a new house or change the flooring, selecting the correct flooring is essential so what do you choose vinyl flooring or a laminate floor? If you have pets in the family as well, then this decision becomes very critical. Your pets will inflict a lot of damage on the flooring including scratches, stains, dust and dirt over time. You need to research and find the best flooring for your home.
This article focuses on different flooring options, considering both the pros and cons. In addition to looking at different options, the article also provides some tips to prevent any sort of damage on your existing floors. Before selecting a flooring if you have pets in the house, there are four primary considerations that you need to remember. The considerations are as follows:
- Resistance to scratches
- Resistance to damage
- Pet traction
- Pet comfort
Dogs have sharp nails and can scratch the flooring, which is a serious issue. Depending on the size and weight of the dog, it could also cause some permanent damage to the flooring. With pets in the house, you must also consider the fact that the flooring should be resistant to damage from urine.
Read the full article to learn more about the best flooring for pets!
Hardwood
Although hardwood flooring is a go-to flooring choice for its clean, classic look, it is not always the best option for pet owners as hardwoods are more prone to stains and water damage. If you already have hardwood floors or your heart is set on a beautiful style, the best pet-friendly hardwood materials include: oak, cherry, maple, hickory, walnut, mahogany, sycamore, and bamboo. Softwoods, such as pine, chestnut, larch, hemlock, and fir are more prone to dents and scratches and are not ideal for homes with larger breed dogs.
The harder the wood, the more likely it is to resist scratches from a dog’s nails.
Hardwood Flooring
Pros
- Available in various colors and finishes
- Easy to vacuum or sweep
Cons
- Expensive
- Prone to water damage and scratches
- Can easily stain if not cleaned immediately
- Salt crystals in pet urine can cause odor and stain to reappear over time
Cork
Similar to bamboo flooring, cork flooring is eco-friendly and a naturally antimicrobial material that will reduce the growth of mold and other allergens. This is a perk that benefits both you and your pet! Additionally, cork flooring is warm and pliant making it comfortable to walk upon and can withstand foot traffic very well.
Cork Flooring
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Anti-microbial
- Requires little maintenance
- Quiet underfoot and sound absorbing
Cons
- Discolors overtime from exposure to sunlight
- Surface can get scratched from sharp nails
- Not suitable in rooms where heavy furniture will be placed as it can indent the flooring permanently
Vinyl
Vinyl flooring is the ideal choice for most pet owners. Compared to other flooring materials, it is an extremely affordable option and can be installed almost anywhere in the home. Vinyl also provides great traction for your pet. Available in a wide variety of designs, such as natural-looking luxury vinyl, it is a durable option that does not compromise on style.
Vinyl Flooring
Pros
- Scratch- and stain-resistant
- Easy-to-clean
- Promotes low levels of allergens
- Quiet underfoot
Cons
- Dulls easily
- Water spills can cause mildew or lifting
Link to the complete article:
https://www.wayfair.com/ideas-and-advice/best-pet-friendly-flooring-guide-S4332.html