Flooring plays a vital role in both the look and functionality of your home. Whether you’re renovating a single room or planning a whole-house makeover, choosing the right flooring can make a huge difference in comfort, durability, and overall value. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular flooring materials and tips for selecting the best option for each room in your home:-
- Hardwood Flooring
Pros:
- Timeless aesthetic and warmth
- Increases home value
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Prone to scratches and water damage
- Not ideal for kitchens or bathrooms
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms
- Laminate Flooring
Pros:
- Affordable alternative to hardwood
- Scratch-resistant and easy to clean
- Wide range of styles and finishes
Cons:
- Cannot be refinished
- Susceptible to water damage if not sealed properly
Best for: Living areas, hallways, home offices
- Vinyl Flooring (including LVT and SPC)
Pros:
- Water-resistant or waterproof
- Comfortable underfoot and quiet
- Realistic look mimicking wood, stone or tile
Cons:
- Cheaper vinyl can feel thin or look artificial
- Can be hard to repair if damaged
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, basements
- Tile Flooring (Ceramic or Porcelain)
Pros:
- Durable and water-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Wide variety of colours and patterns
Cons:
- Can be cold and hard underfoot
- Grout may require maintenance
- Installation can be labour-intensive
Best for: Bathrooms, kitchens, hallways
- Carpet
Pros:
- Soft, warm and cosy
- Good for sound insulation
- Wide range of colours and textures
Cons:
- Stains easily and requires regular cleaning
- Not suitable for damp or high-traffic areas
Best for: Bedrooms, sitting rooms
- Engineered Wood Flooring
Pros:
- More moisture-resistant than solid hardwood
- Real wood veneer gives authentic look
- Suitable for underfloor heating
Cons:
- Can’t be sanded as many times as solid wood
- Still more expensive than laminate or vinyl
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens (with care)
Tips for Choosing the Right Flooring
- Consider foot traffic: High-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens need more durable materials such as tile or vinyl.
- Think about moisture: Bathrooms and utility rooms should have water-resistant or waterproof flooring.
- Match your style: The flooring should complement your home’s décor and colour scheme.
- Keep comfort in mind: If you’re spending long hours standing (e.g., in the kitchen), consider a softer underfoot option.
- Don’t forget maintenance: Choose something you’re happy to clean and maintain over time.
Final Thought
Each room in your home has different demands, so it makes sense to mix and match flooring types. Don’t rush your decision,take home samples, get expert advice, and compare prices.
If you’re ready to start your flooring project, you can post your job on Tradesmen.ie and receive quotes from rated flooring specialists near you. Whether you’re laying down tiles, installing carpet, or fitting a hardwood floor, we’ll help you find the right tradesperson for the job.
Cheers
Oliver Dempsey
Tradesmen.ie
26 June 2025
General Tips for hiring a tradesman
Here are some tips to consider when hiring a tradesman:-
1. Ask for phone numbers of references so that you can check them out
2. Check insurance of the tradesman where insurance is required
3. Hire a suitably qualified architect, building surveyor or building engineer if the job is anything to do with a new build, building renovation or extension
4. Agree on some sort of stage payments for the job. Remember that full payment should not be made until the job is complete and has been inspected by you, and if necessary by a certifier.
