Do Pets and Hardwood Flooring Mix?
If you have pets but want to upgrade your floors, you should know that blending the two is possible. Of course, special precautions should be taken, but there’s no reason why you can’t have pets and beautiful floors too.
Whether you're considering solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), or laminate, each option offers unique features to make it appealing to every homeowner. Here are some tips for creating a pet-friendly surface where you want it most.
Hardwood and Moisture Don’t Mix
Everyone knows that hardwood flooring and moisture don't usually mix. That's because wood reacts to dampness by expanding and contracting based on temperatures.
But with certain features added to your new wood flooring, you can have a better experience than most. This experience is a great time to consider hardwood for all your pressing remodel needs.
Engineered Hardwood as a Solution
Engineered hardwood can be a better choice for pet owners, as it is more stable and less susceptible to moisture issues than solid hardwood. The multiple layers in engineered hardwood offer better resistance to expansion and contraction, making it a pet-friendly option.
Making Wood Floors Pet-Proof
Textured finishes could be your best friend in a pet-friendly home. These surfaces better hide light scuffs and scratches, such as what comes with pet nails.
A great finish makes a big difference, too, protecting against a bit of dampness from wet paws now and then. A few well-placed area rugs can work wonders too.
The Benefits of Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is an excellent choice for pet owners. It's incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and moisture. Tile is also easy to clean, which is a significant advantage when dealing with pet accidents or muddy paws.
Grout Considerations
When choosing tile, consider the color and type of grout. Darker grout can hide stains better, and using a stain-resistant grout sealer can further protect your floors from discoloration.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) for Pet-Friendly Homes
Luxury vinyl plank flooring offers the beauty of hardwood with the durability and ease of maintenance that pet owners need. LVP is resistant to scratches, moisture, and stains, making it a top choice for homes with pets.
Comfort and Sound
LVP is softer underfoot compared to hardwood and tile, providing a more comfortable surface for pets. It's also quieter, reducing the noise of pet nails clicking on the floor.
Laminate Flooring: An Affordable Alternative
Laminate flooring is another excellent option for pet owners, offering durability and a wide range of styles. It's resistant to scratches and easy to clean, making it a practical choice.
Moisture-Resistant Laminate
Look for laminate flooring with moisture-resistant properties, especially in areas where spills and accidents are more likely to happen. This type of laminate can better withstand the challenges of a pet-friendly home.
Call Us for Your Flooring Needs
At The Flooring Guys, we offer a comprehensive inventory of products and all the services to match them. So when you're ready for the best flooring options, we're prepared to ensure you find your perfect fit.
Call us today to find the perfect flooring for your pet-friendly home!
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