New flooring changes the look and feel of your whole home. But in the Bay Area, damp marine air, older subfloors and earthquake-country homes make some floors a better fit than others. Here is how the most popular options compare.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP)
LVP is the most requested floor in Bay Area homes right now, and for good reason. It is waterproof, scratch resistant, comfortable underfoot and looks like real wood. It works in every room, including kitchens and bathrooms.
Best for: busy families, pets, kitchens, whole-home installs.
Porcelain tile
Tile is extremely durable, stays cool in the summer and handles water perfectly. Wood-look porcelain planks give you the style of hardwood with the toughness of tile.
Best for: kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and entryways.
Engineered hardwood
Engineered hardwood has a real wood surface on a stable core, which handles humidity much better than solid hardwood. It adds warmth and value to living areas and bedrooms.
Best for: living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms.
Laminate
Modern laminate looks great and costs less than most other options. Some newer products are water resistant, but it is still best kept out of wet areas.
Best for: bedrooms, offices and budget-friendly projects.
Quick comparison
| Floor type | Water resistance | Durability | Feel underfoot |
|---|---|---|---|
| LVP | Excellent | Very good | Soft, quiet |
| Porcelain tile | Excellent | Excellent | Hard, cool |
| Engineered wood | Fair | Good | Warm |
| Laminate | Fair to good | Good | Firm |
Do not forget the subfloor
Whatever you choose, the subfloor or slab under it must be flat. Uneven subfloors cause clicking, gaps and cracked tile. A good installer levels the floor before installing anything.
Ready to pick your new floor? See our flooring installation service or request a free estimate.