Want to Upgrade Your Floors? Here Are Your Options

By Erika Riggs

When it comes to flooring, and many other aspects of a home’s interior, opinions vary. Some people swear by classic hardwood to increase a home’s value, while others love the look of tile and some homeowners insist on the affordable faux versions like laminate or vinyl.

From triple-digit costs to DIY options, here’s a look at the flooring choices for your real estate needs:

Hardwood

$3-$8 per square foot
DIY Installation: Difficult

Always a classic, hardwood has great staying power in a home and can fit with a number of floor plans and home styles. Many people prefer it for its “warm” look and its ability to blend rooms — ideal in houses that boast open-floor plans.

While hardwood is great for living areas, it is not ideal for places with a lot of moisture, and some only suggest it in the kitchen if it’s factory pre-treated with a polyurethane sealing. Even then, hardwood should be resealed every five or six years and be treated with care.