Real hardwood flooring can be mimicked but cannot be matched exactly (not even by top manufacturers of engineered wood or wood-look tile flooring). However, that doesn’t mean real hardwood flooring is best for every home or every room. If you want the look of hardwood floors, but are wondering if your home and lifestyle may need something else, here are some things to consider.
Wear & Tear
Although there are many reasons to consider hardwood flooring, if you have pets or children or live near the beaches in Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Clearwater or another coastal community, wood-look tile might be a better option for you. Sand, pets’ toenails and children’s toys can scratch hardwood floors. Tile, whether in a wood-look pattern or otherwise, is simply more durable than real hardwood and can stand up to these heavy-wear scenarios.
Water-Safe
Most people understand that water and wood don’t mix. Your wood-look tile won’t warp or swell because your teen isn’t great at keeping the water in the shower. If you have a pool house or pool bath where people come in and out without completely drying off, but you still want the look of hardwood flooring, tile is your best option since it is water-safe.
Less Expensive
Most wood-look tile is less expensive than most real hardwood. You can easily find a quality tile that looks like almost any wood species in any finish for less of a cost. Tile manufacturers don’t have to charge more when they mimic the look of Brazilian cherry over a white oak while different species of wood have varying costs.
Easy Maintenance
Although both tile and wood flooring can be mopped with a damp mop, tile requires less maintenance over its lifetime. It doesn’t require a new topcoat or sanding and refinishing. Because wood-look tiles are installed with minimal grout lines, you likely won’t even have to worry about grout cleaning.
Seer Flooring Can Help
If you’re still unsure of the flooring you need for your home, call Seer Flooring. We have decades of experience helping homeowners choose the perfect flooring to work within your lifestyle, decorating goals, and budget. Reach us by calling (727) 469-7963 or by filling out our contact form today. All our consultations are free.